Manila Standard - 2020 July 11 - Saturday

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The rise and fall of a giant network: A roller coaster ride

By Maricel V. Cruz ABS-CBN started its tumultuous though productive life when American engineer James Lindenberg, the ‘father of Philippine television’ formed the Bolinao Electronics Corp., a business entity that engaged in radio equipment

manufacture and broadcasting soon after the Second World War. Bolinao soon went into radio broadcasting as radio station DZBC with Lindenberg at the helm.

By 1951, Lindenberg partnered with Antonio Quirino, brother of then President

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ABS-CBN loses franchise bid House votes 70-11 to throw out bills favoring broadcast titan

Palace denies hand in lawmakers’ ruling

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

B

ROADCAST giant ABS-CBN was shuttered after lawmakers voted 70-11 to reject bills that would have given the radio and TV network a new 25-year franchise. There was one abstention and two recusals.

By Vito Barcelo, Macon Ramos-Araneta, Rio N. Araja and Benjamin Chavez

“It is what it is — a denial of a privilege granted by the state because the applicant was seen as undeserving of the grant of a legislative franchise,” said

MALACAÑANG on Friday said it respects the decision of Congress to reject ABSCBN’s franchise renewal application and cannot do anything about it.

Palace spokesman Harry Roque also reiterated that President Rodrigo Duterte did not interfere with the decision

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LAST-DITCH STAND. Employees and supporters of ABS-CBN protest in front of the House of Representatives on July 10, 2020 while Ernie Lopez, president of ABSCBN Creative Programs, talks to mediamen outside the network’s office building in Quezon City. The House committee on legislative franchise threw out bills seeking a new franchise for the network. AFP

House Majority Floor Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez (center) discusses with Rep. Franz Alvarez (right), chairman of the committee on legislative franchise, and Rep. Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado, chairman of the committee on good government and public accountability, the floor agenda at the House plenary hall before the start of the session and voting for the franchise renewal bid of the ABSCBN. The House panel on legislative franchise voted 70-11 to reject the broadcast giant’s franchise bid. Ver Noveno

PH scouts for vaccine partners; 2020 year of Pinoy health workers—Du30 wearing of masks a must—DOH for the coronavirus, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday.

The department says it has initiated THE Philippines has started looking coordination and the exchange of infor possible foreign partners to secure formation with various groups in the the availability of a potential vaccine Next page

By Rey Requejo, Willie Casas, Rio Araja and Joel Zurbano

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte, through Proclamation No. 976, has declared 2020 as the “Year of Filipino Health Workers” to recognize the “heroism and selfless compassion” of medical workers in the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Duterte signed Proclamation 976 on July 6, as he noted the crisis had posed a daunting challenge to the country’s

health sector.

“There is a need to commemorate the immeasurable acts of heroism and selfless compassion of nurses, midwives, and all health workers, and give due honor to those who sacrificed their lives in the line of service, especially during this extraordinary time,” he said in the proclamation.

Under the proclamation, the Department of Health is tasked to lead, coordinate, and supervise the nationwide observance of the Year of Filipino Health Workers.

All other government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations Next page

Backlog of samples for testing tops 12,000 considered backlogs in various laboratories nationwide.

In an online forum, Health UndersecTHE Department of Health said Friday more than 12,000 submitted retary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the samples for COVID-19 testing were processing of these samples had been delayed for various reasons, including the “overwhelming” arrival of specimens due to revised protocols for expanded COVID-19 testing.

By Willie Casas

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM JULY 10)

52,914

1,233 NEW

TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

848

1,360

42

13,230

286

DEATHS

RECOVERIES

FRESH

NEW

NEW

Last week, Malacañang announced that even people who did not exhibit COVID-19 symptoms would be included in the government’s expanded testing program.

To finish the backlogs, Vergeire said the laboratories had capped the number of samples they accept per day.

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• HK closes all schools in wake of sharp rise in virus infections HONG Kong will days, Kevin Yeung close all schools said, after the city after the territory recorded an “exporeported a spike in nential growth” of locally transmitted locally transmitted coronavirus infections, the city’s edu- cases in the past few days. cation minister said Friday.

Authorities had taken the move “for the The government has ordered all general good of the community as well as schools to close from Monday, bringing the health of the students,” Yeung said.

Next page forward the start of the summer holi-

WORLD ROUNDUP

10% SOLUTION. Catholic devotees attend Mass at the Quiapo church on Friday July

10, 2020 following a decision of the Inter-agency Task Force on Infectious Disease to allow religious gatherings up to 10% of church capacity. Contributed by Indak Clarito.

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SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

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Meralco consumers gain relief

By Alena Mae S. Flores

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ONSUMERS will have slightly lower power rates in July after Manila Electric Co. announced Friday that the overall rate for a typical household went down by P0.0286 per kilowatt hour, to P8.6966 from P8.7252, last month.

This is equivalent to a reduction of around P6 in the total bill of residential customers consuming 200 kilowatt hours.

Meralco spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga said that, with four straight months of generation rate reduction—and a total rate cut of more than P1 per kilowatt hour since the start of the year—this month’s overall rate was significantly lower than in July 2019, which was P9.9850 per kilowatt hour.

This month’s overall rate will also be the lowest since September 2017.

“What led to the lower rate is the lower generation charge, and in particular Meralco’s claim of force majeure for our contracted suppliers,” Zaldarriaga said.

Meralco’s generation charge decreased

by P0.0069 per kilowatt hour to P4.3344 this month from P4.3413 in June.

Meralco continued to invoke the force majeure provision in some of its Power Supply Agreements because of the reduction in demand in its service area during the quarantine period.

Meralco’s force majeure claim totaled

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ABS-CBN...

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of Congress.

Roque said the decision was the sole prerogative of Congress that the executive department recognized.

In recent days, the Palace spokesman has repeatedly said that members of Congress should vote as “their conscience dictates” because the President was neutral on the issue, even though Duterte had vowed to block ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal as early as two years ago.

Presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo said the Palace never intrudes in the business of its coequal branches.

“Both sides of the issues have been heard. We leave it to the collective wisdom of the committee apropos its denial of the renewal of [the] franchise,” he said.

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) issued a cease-and-desist order on May 5 that brought about the network’s shutdown following the expiry of its 25year franchise.

Opposition senators expressed grief over the House decision not to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise.

“This episode in the history of our nation is reminiscent of the dark pages in the history of Philippine press in 1972,” said Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon.

“Democracy thrives when there is free press and when journalists can exercise complete freedom to do their mandate of reporting facts without fear,” he said.

He said the ABS-CBN case was a sword of Damocles over the heads of other media outfits.

After monitoring the exhaustive proceedings in the House of Representatives, Drilon said he is more convinced that the only fault of ABSCBN is it stepped on some powerful political toes.

“The sword of Damocles will continue to hang perilously over other media networks. Both the legislators and the executive can wield the sword at their whim and caprice. This is when democracy starts to weaken.

In the face of a global pandemic, he said there was a need for more access to information.

He said ABS-CBN complements other stations in providing timely and accurate reportage even in the farthest locality unreachable to others, even to the government.

the resolution approved by the committees on legislative franchises and good government and public accountability.

The lawmakers—many of them allies of President Rodrigo Duterte—took pains to emphasize that their decision had nothing to do with press freedom, even though Duterte had threatened as early as 2018 to block the renewal of ABS-CBN’s license to operate.

“By no means can this franchise application be related to press freedom,” their resolution read. “If it were so, then all applicants for legislative franchises covering mass media could simply claim such freedom and force the hand of this committee each time.”

ABS-CBN was ordered to stop operating on May 5 after its legislative franchise expired, even though there were several bills seeking its renewal pending in the House of Representatives.

The committees held the final hearing on the ABS-CBN franchise starting at 1 p.m. Friday and promptly started the voting on the “Resolution denying the franchise application of ABS-CBN Corporation to Construct, Install, Establish, Operate and Maintain Radio and Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines.”

On eve of the voting, the joint panel chaired by Reps. Franz Alvarez of Palawan and Jonathan Sy-Alvarado of Bulacan created a technical working group (TWG) to prepare the report that doomed ABS-CBN’s franchise application after having conducted 13 hearings.

Members of the working group were Deputy Speaker Pablo John Garcia,

Backlog...

From A1 The DOH has also implemented zoning for easy referral to other nearby laboratories.

As of July 9, there were 83 laboratories in the country accredited to conduct COVID-19 tests— 62 of which are polymerase chain reaction facilities and 21 GeneXpert laboratories.

The operational laboratories have tested 825,139 individuals, 61,964 of whom

2020...

From A1 and state universities and colleges, are directed to assist DOH in implementing Proclamation 976.

All local government units, business communities, relevant civil society groups, and professional organizations are likewise enjoined to participate and support the DOH to ensure the effective implementation of the proclamation.

Proclamation 976 also encourages all national and local publications, television networks, and radio stations to promote awareness and generate public support for the programs and activities

The rise...

From A1 Elpidio Quirino on a television broadcasting venture and renamed Bolinao as Alto Broadcasting System and, despite lack of much resources, were able to put up a television tower and start broadcasting as DZAQ-TV. To sustain the operations of ABS, the company had to import the first 300 television sets to be used commercially in the Philippines.

Its first broadcast was that of a social event in Quirino’s home.

Chronicle Broadcasting Network (CBN), on the other hand, was started

by Eugenio Lopez Sr., brother of the sitting Philippine vice president at the time, Fernando Lopez.

In 1957, Eugenio acquired ABS from were positive for COVID-19 for a positivity rate of 7.5 percent, Vergeire said.

Vergeire said the average turnaround time or the waiting time to get the COVID-19 testing result was 24 to 48 hours for GeneXpert laboratories, and 50 hours for RT-PCR laboratories.

Meanwhile, the DOH on Friday reported 1,233 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the total to 52,914.

Of the total, 38,324 are active cases undergoing treatment or quarantine.

DOH likewise announced 286 recovrelative to the celebration of the Year of Filipino Health Workers.

“The State recognizes the invaluable contributions of nurses, midwives, and all other health workers, as the backbone of the country’s health system, whether in promoting health consciousness, performing essential medical and health services, or responding to health crises in various situations,” the order read.

“Thousands of Filipino health workers, who comprise a major component of the nation’s labor force, selflessly and tirelessly provide essential, quality, and critical care to individuals, families, and groups, even in the face of great peril, fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability,” it added.

about P265 million for July, which is equivalent to customer savings of P0.0877 per kilowatt hour in the generation charge.

Meralco’s head of utility economics Lawrence Fernandez said this represented avoided charges from the temporary suspension of mid-merit supply contracts recently approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Without the force majeure claims, the total rate would have increased by P0.0717 per kilowatt hour from last month’s rate.

For the past four months, the savings from force majeure claims have totaled around P1.85 billion.

Charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market declined significantly, and by P1.7803 per hour, due to the reduction in line rental costs related

to Meralco’s supply contracts.

Meralco sourced 15.9 percent of its power requirements from the spot market, the trading floor for electricity, in June.

Meanwhile, the cost of power from Independent Power Producers increased by P0.4354 per kilowatt hour, and mainly due to the lower average plant dispatch with the five-day scheduled maintenance outage of San Lorenzo Modules 50 and 60.

Meralco said the peso’s appreciation mitigated further increases in its charges.

Meralco sourced 50.9 percent and 33.2 percent of its power supply from its Power Supply Agreements and Independent Power Producers, respectively.

Meanwhile, the transmission charge for residential customers registered a reduction of P0.0426 per kilowatt hour due to lower ancillary service charges.

Camiguin Rep. Xavier Jesus Romualdo, and Marikina Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo, who dissented from the majority opinion in the TWG. The TWG report said ABS-CBN violated its old franchise because its former chairman Eugenio Lopez III was a dual citizen. It also took issue with its issuance of Philippine depositary receipts that supposedly favored foreigners; inappropriate program content; meddling in politics; tax avoidance schemes; and “less than exemplary labor practices.”

But during the hearings, the Bureau of Internal Revenue and other government agencies cleared ABS-CBN of any tax violations.

The report said legislative franchises were a privilege and never a matter of right. “[I]n view of the foregoing, the technical working group respectfully recommends the denial of the franchise application of ABS CBN Corporation,” it said.

The chamber’s decision to deny ABS-CBN a franchise marks an end of the media empire of the Lopez family that started right after World War II. Palawan Rep. Alvarez, chairman of the franchise panel said the door is not totally closed on the network as the committee on franchises is willing to reopen hearings if a congressman files a fresh bill seeking a franchise for the network.

Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, one of the authors of the ABS-CBN franchise bills, expressed dismay over the results of the voting.

“The protracted hearings conducted by the committees on legislative franchises and on good government followed a foregone conclusion, and despite ABS-CBN surviving the grueling

legislative inquisition, it was slain at the end of the show with premeditation and abuse of superiority in numbers as aggravating circumstances,” Lagman said in a statement.

Opposers of the franchise renewal application led by Deputy Speaker Rodante Marcoleta raised eight issues against the network–the dual citizenship of ABS-CBN chairman emeritus Eugenio “Gabby” Lopez III; the issuance of Philippine Depositary Receipts

by ABS-CBN Holdings to foreign nationals; the irregular reacquisition of the broadcast facilities by the Lopez family after 1986 People Power Revolution; the 50-year constitutional limit on franchises; the network’s digital migration; its alleged labor malpractices; tax issues and biased news reporting.

Alvarez said the ABS-CBN can appeal before the joint committee and added that the decision of the committee to deny the franchise application will no longer be elevated to the chamber in plenary session for action.

He added that if any congressman refiles the same bill, the committee will reopen the discussion on the measure.

Lagman branded the TWG creation as “part of the charade.”

“While reasonable dispatch in the accomplishment of the work of a TWG is laudable, inordinate alacrity is suspect like in the case of the TWG, which recommended the denial of the application of ABS-CBN Corporation for a franchise renewal in less than 24 hours after it was formed and despite the fact that it had to review more than 100 hours of hearings, voluminous documents and records, as well as major contentious issues,” Lagman said.

Quirino and Lindenberg but it it was only in 1967 that the corporate name was changed to ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation By the late 1960s it operated radio stations DZXL and DZAQ, and television Channels 2 and 9. Channel 9 was later transferred to Channel 4.

By 1970, the network owned and operated two national television networks and 12 regional television stations, six national radio and 15 regional radio stations nationwide.

However, on September 22,1972, the ABS-CBN stations were shut down as martial law was declared.

Geny Lopez, the president of the company, was detained for five years until he and his cellmate Sergio Osmeña III escaped from Fort Bonifacio in 1977 and sought asylum in the United States.

The network’s facilities were lent by

the martial law government to Roberto Benedicto, whose radio and television facilities on Roxas Boulevard were destroyed in a fire.

When Benedicto’s broadcast stations transferred to a new headquarters on Tandang Sora Avenue, Quezon City, the former ABS-CBN facilities were transferred to the government television that used Channel 4.

When the People Power Revolt broke out in February 1986, Constabulary Highway Patrol Group and Special Action Force troopers took control of the facilities on the third day of the revolt and interrupted the last press conference of then President Marcos that was being broadcast live by Channel 4.

Right after the revolution, Geny Lopez returned to the country after self-exile in the United States and started rebuilding from what was left of the station.

eries. This brings the total number of recoveries to 13,230.

In June, the country’s testing czar Vince Dizon said the government targeted to test 10 million in the next eight to 10 months.

The government earlier said its goal was to conduct 30,000 tests per day by May 30. Months later, laboratories were still hard-pressed to consistently breach the 20,000 mark in daily tests conducted.

The DOH earlier explained that operational constraints were preventing laboratories from operating at their

World...

From A1 Those scheduled to take exams could still do so, he added, although they would have to wear masks and maintain social distancing.

Hong Kong’s public high schools were closed in January amid the early stages of the virus outbreak, and were gradually re-opened from May after the territory successfully curbed new infections.

But new clusters have emerged in the past two days, including at an elderly care home that reported at least 32 cases.

maximum capacity.

Vergeire pointed out that the country did not have the resources to conduct COVID-19 testing when the first case was recorded in January in response to presidential spokesman Harry Roque’s comment that the Philippines could have expanded its testing capacity much earlier into the pandemic.

At the same time, Vergeire said the defect which caused the recall of the COVID-19 test kits developed by the University of the Philippines had been fixed and its roll-out would be soon.

Australia cuts citizen returns as virus surge worsens

Australia will slash the number of returning citizens allowed into the country by half as it struggles to contain a worsening coronavirus outbreak in its secondlargest city, officials announced Friday.

From Monday, only 4,000 Australian citizens or permanent residents will be allowed back into the country each day, down from around 8,000 currently, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

He said the move was needed to focus resources on countering the “very concerning” virus surge in Melbourne, where authorities reported a record 288 new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours.

Pillion riding with ‘divider’ risky—solon

By Maricel V. Cruz A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Friday warned that placing a divider between bicycle-riding couples may not only be useless and impractical, but could put them in danger as well as other motorists and pedestrians.

While he welcomed the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases to allow couples on motorcycles, Rep. Ronnie Ong of the Ang Probinsyano party-list group suggested it would be better if the divider requirement was scrapped.

“I don’t see any reason why a divider or a shield is required for couples who eat, sleep and even take a bath together,” said Ong, vice chairman of the House committees on rural development and tourism “The shield poses a great risk to motorcycle riders, motorists and pedestrians.”

But Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said he did not see any safety issues arising from putting a physical barrier between a motorcycle rider and the back rider.

He said the design was checked by experts.

Still, Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. on Thursday bucked the measure, saying the makeshift barrier between the motorcycle rider and the passenger might affect its balance, hence increasing the chances of accidents.

Ong said the requirement to place dividers on motorcycles was now the subject of complaints among riders as they feared it would become a convenient tool for extortion by corrupt traffic enforcers.

Instead of a physical divider or a shield being installed on motorcycles, Ong said, riders should just be required to wear full-face helmets, face masks, long-sleeved shirts or jackets, long pants, gloves and shoes.

PH...

From A1 Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa and the Middle East that are developing vaccines against the disease.

“The DFA stands ready to support and complement efforts of Philippine government agencies in response to the current pandemic and eventually secure a viable vaccine for COVID-19 for Filipinos in the soonest possible time,” the department said.

Masks necessary

Amid reports that the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2— the causative agent of COVID-19—being airborne, the Department of Health stressed the importance of wearing a mask as part of the prescribed minimum health standards to ensure utmost protection from COVID-19.

Edsel Salvana, a member of the department’s Technical Advisory Group, says the virus is assumed to be airborne when conducting aerosol generating procedures in hospitals.

“This is why our health care workers use N95 masks and conduct strict infection prevention and control measures,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a virtual presser.

Relief requested

Nurses at the San Lazaro Hospital on Friday asked the management for relief from their workload as they expressed concern over the risk they face in their jobs.

“We need all the help and all the prayers that our nation can offer as we watch the tremendous increase of COVID-19 positive cases in our country,” the nurses said in a statement posted by the group Filipino Nurses United National.

“We were trained to handle infectious diseases for decades, but apparently we are now becoming the victims.”

Some five million residents of greater Melbourne were ordered into a six-week, stay-at-home lockdown this week in an effort to curb the outbreak, which has rattled a nation that had successfully contained the epidemic in most areas weeks ago.

Italy bans entry from 13 nations

Italy has banned travelers from Brazil and 12 other countries it considers to pose a high risk of COVID-19 transmission.

The full list comprises Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Brazil, Chile, the Dominican Republic, Kuwait, North Macedonia, Moldova, Oman, Panama and Peru. AFP

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A3

Only 49 OFW remains arrive from KSA

By Vito Barcelo and Rio N. Araja

IN BRIEF

T

HE Department of Labor and Employment apologized for the delay in the repatriation of the more than 270 remains of overseas Filipino workers who died in Saudi Arabia, after only 49 bodies of the OFWs arrived in the country. Almost half of them died of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

BOC, PDEA agents nab marijuana ‘consignee’ COMBINED elements of the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency arrested a consignee of a controlled delivery package that contained dried marijuana leaves, rolling papers and smoking pipe which arrived at the Port of Clark, Pampanga.

The claimant of the package was arrested at Majayjay, Laguna by BOC and PDFEAZ agents who followed the consignee after claiming the shipment found to contain 4.5 grams of Kush Marijuana and 82 leaves of rolling papers.

“The subject shipment said to contain “Gifts, Letters and Photos” from Germany arrived on June 25, 2020 and was subjected to strict profiling and non-intrusive examination,” the BOC said.

“The shipment was likewise subjected to K9 sniffing which indicated presence of illegal drugs. Thereafter, PDEA chemical analysis was conducted which yielded positive result for presence of Marijuana,” BOC commissioner Rey Leonardo Guer-

PLM opens online re-exam for admission on July 13 IN response to requests to accommodate applicants who were unable to finish their online admission test last June 11, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila is setting an online re-exam schedule on Monday, July 13, 2020.

All examinees previously approved to take the online PLMAT will be allowed to retake the exam, provided that they have a duly submitted examination permit but were not able to access or take the previous online examination.

A student who was able to access the online exam but was not able to finish will also be allowed to retake the test, but only the unfinished portion of the exam will be credited in favor of the examinee. No new applicants will be accommodated.

All the affected PLMAT takers should send an email to the admissions office to signify an intent to retake the exam not later than 4:00 p.m., Saturday, July 11, with the following information: full name (last, first, middle name), applicant number, and the copy of the test permit for the June 11 exam.

Housing chief okays ‘promotional’ rates HOUSING czar Eduardo del Rosario as Pag-IBIG Fund’s Home Development Mutual Fund head has approved the promotional rates for housing loans for the remainder of 2020.

During Pag-IBIG’s board meeting last July 9, Del Rosario, the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development chief, gave the green light on the proposal of the Pag-IBIG management to offer promotional rates for its members who will apply for housing loans under its end-user financing program from July to Dec. 29.

The fund is offering special low rates of 4.985 percent per annum under a one-year repricing period and 5.375 percent per annum under a three-year repricing period.

According to Del Rosario, these are their lowest-ever rates under its regular housing loan program, and are available to members getting new home loans until the end of 2020 only.

“These further reduce the agency’s previous rates, already pegged at a low 5.375 percent per annum for the one-year repricing and 6.375 percent per annum for the three-year repricing period,” he said.

Meanwhile, the interest rates for its affordable housing program, available for low and minimum-wage earners, remain at its lowest with the subsidized home loan interest rate of three percent per annum.

Rio N. Araja

HEAVY DAMAGE. Firefighters douse the flames that razed the Sto. Niño Parish in Pandacan, Manila. Norman Cruz

Public warned vs deception of tobacco firms’ ads

By Macon Ramos-Araneta HEALTH and transport advocates on Friday warned the public against possible deceptive tactics of the tobacco industry to pursue their commercial interest amid the pandemic.

Health Reform advocate Dr. Anthony Leachon reiterated the warning of the World Health Organization that smoking is a risk factor to the coronavirus disease.

The WHO, Leachon said, also stressed that smokers and vapers are likely to be more vulnerable to viruses due to how

these products are consumed and how they weaken the immune system of both users and non-users.

“Allowing the promotion and marketing of these products in this crisis will exacerbate the already heavy burden that the pandemic had caused to our health systems and economy,” added Leachon, a former adviser to the government’s National Action Plan against COVID-19.

He pointed out that the health pandemic has claimed more than half a million lives worldwide and 12 million people have been infected. In the Philippines alone, the

number of those infected with COVID-19 has reached more than 50,000.

Meanwhile, Jaime Aguilar, secretary general of the National Confederation of Transportworkers Union, called on the government to uphold policies against tobacco product advertisements, promotion and sponsorships for the health and safety of commuters and the general public. He said the public should be warned to denounce any marketing strategy from the industry as this is contrary to the existing laws and policies, including for those who in public transport.

Isko gives tax credits to ‘OFW motels’

By Willie Casas

MANILA City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Domagoso has signed an ordinance granting a P100,000 tax credit to all hotels, motels, dormitories and similar establishments who provided free lodging to frontliners during the COVID-19 crisis.

Under Ordinance No. 8646, the Manila City government shall grant a tax relief in the form of a P100,000 tax credit to establishments.

The tax credit “may be applied on all forms of local business taxes, regulatory fees and services including the appropriate surcharge and penalty interests.”

“The tax credit shall be granted to all hotels, motels, dormitories and other similar establishments which accorded free lodging services to frontliners during the COVID-19 crisis as evidenced by substantial documentary proof,” the ordinance read.

“The herein tax credit worth P100,000 may be claimed within a period of three years from the enactment of this ordinance,” it said.

Domagoso recently issued Executive Order No. 17 ordering hotels and motels in Manila to provide free lodging for healthcare workers based in facilities in the nation’s capital. “[I] do hereby order all the motels and hotels in the city of Manila to accommodate the health workers of 6 hospitals of Manila, including those of the national government hospitals, as their staging area in going to and coming from city hospitals and national government hospitals,” Domagoso said in a Facebook live address on March 18.

BARRIERS REQUIRED. Members of the Manila Police District arrest pedestrians who are not wearing face masks as part of community quarantine protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They also warn riders whose wives are riding pillion to put safety barriers in their motorcycle at a regular checkpoint along the corner of C.M Recto and Dagupan in Divisoria, Manila. Norman Cruz

“We sincerely apologize for the muchdelayed homecoming owing to the lockdowns and strenuous processes that we have to undergo for their return. The added anxiety to the families caused by the suspended homeward journey is certainly undeserved,” Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said in a statement.

He said of the 49 OFWs repatriated, 32 were from Dammam, while 17 were from Riyadh.

Bello said another batch of bodies of OFWs would be flown from Saudi Arabia by next week.

He said the government of President Duterte will continue to fly home all the dead, and if need be, not only from the Middle East but also from all over the world.

The Labor chief also thanked the collaborative efforts of the various agencies which include the DFA, DOH and the Bureau of Quarantine, DILG, DND, DOTr, MIAA, the Bureau of Customs, the POEA and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

“As we grieve with the families left behind by all our OFW heroes, including those already buried overseas and those flown home ahead, we give our highest respects and gratitude for their heroic sacrifices for the country,” Bello said.

The remains of those who died of Covid-19 would be cremated immediately, while the kin of those who died of natural causes have the option to bury them or have them cremated.

The families of the 274 OFWs would receive bereavement benefits and insurance.

According to DOLE data, 129 of the 274 OFWs died of Covid-19 and 145 died of natural causes.

Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights urged the national and local government to protect the human rights of every one in their implementation of the quarantine measures.

In a statement, lawyer-spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia raised concern over an incident when a village official recently forced a resident in Manila to run naked in public as punishment for violating curfew restrictions.

In a television interview, Barangay councilor Alberto Valenzona of Barangay 108, Zone 9 in Tondo, Manila admitted he himself posted the naked picture of the curfew violator on social media, whom he accused of being a drug dependent.

Manila prosecutors seek justice for slain colleague

By Rey E. Requejo and Maricel V. Cruz PROSECUTORS and employees at the Office of the City Prosecutors on Friday denounced the killing of Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Jovencio Senados and called on authorities to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“The killing of Chief Senados is not only an assault to a hardworking, brilliant & dedicated public servant who devoted decades of his life to public service but also an assault to the rule of law,” the Prosecutors’ League of Manila said in a

statement.

The 62-year old Senados was shot dead in Paco, Manila on Tuesday, July 7. He was the sixth lawyer to be killed in 2020, which started with the killing of former congressman and lawyer Edgar Mendoza in January.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra earlier ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate the ambushslaying of Senados.

“This attack against a prosecutor, as all previous senseless killings of prosecutors, judges, and lawyers, is an attack against the entire legal profession,” the statement

said, even as they described the killing as “despicable and cowardly act of murder.”

Guevarra said he is confident that the ambush-slay of Senados will be solved soon.

According to him, the 62-year-old official may have handled “hazardous” cases in his “many years” in the service.

“Prosecutor Senados had been in the prosecution service for many years. As chief of the inquest division of OCP (Office of the City Prosecutor) Manila, he had probably handled hazardous cases that had placed his personal security at great risk,” he said.

MPTC heeds gov’t call on infra buildup THE Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., the holding and managing company of the tollways sector of the MVP Group, is investing P120 billion to support the Duterte government’s infrastructure building goals, close on the heels of the call of Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs and Projects Secretary Vince Dizon for private firms to step in to quicken the construction momentum.

Dizon, who is also president and CEO of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), underscored the “greater participation of the private sector in the Build! Build! Build! program, highlighting the importance of accelerating infrastructure build-up in the country’s economic recovery plan.”

This developed as MPTC Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan announced that MPTC has “resumed full blast construction of our major tollways projects in strategic areas of Luzon.”

Pangilinan emphasized that the government, more than ever, needs private sector participation in the government’s huge infrastructure development program to further stimulate the Philippine economy.”

“Infrastructure building brings with it a huge multiplier effect on the economy,” Pangilinan said, especially with MPTC’s massive investments in constructing new tollways and expanding its present expressway network.

The Palace’s economic cluster had earlier indicated that the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth would decline by 2% to 3.4%, attributable to the slowdown of economic activities due to the pandemic.

Rodrigo Franco, MPTC president, affirmed the resumption of MPTC’s infrastructure building initiatives in key areas in Luzon and the Visayas, particularly Cebu, following the easing of COVID-19 protocols.

MPTC has identified four major expressway expansion areas, backed up by major project investments.

In northern Metro Manila and Central Luzon, MPTC is implementing three major projects this year along the North Luzon Expressway corridor, including the NLEX Connector, with a combined length of 19 kilometers, with an aggregate value of P22 billion.

Members of the Fiscals and Prosecutors League troop to the Manila City Hall on Friday wearing black shirts bearing the message “Justice for Jovencio Senados.” Senados, a senior assistant prosecutor, was killed in an ambush on July 7.

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor

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SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020 lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

DONATIONS FOR CEBU. Volunteers of SM Foundation get to horse around with face shields to be donated to the Bayanihan Cebu Sacred Heart School Field Center, while others count the face masks going to the Cebu City Quarantine Center. Other beneficiaries of the donations worth P2.5 million are Cebu Doctors University Hospital, Mactan Doctors Hospital, Cebu North General Hospital, Cebu South General Hospital, St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, NOAH Complex, and the Bayanihan Cebu IEC Field Center.

Manila measure gives P100k tax credits to hotels

By Willie Casas MANILA City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Domagoso has signed an ordinance granting a P100,000 tax credit to all hotels, motels, dormitories and similar establishments who provided free lodging to frontliners during the COVID-19 crisis.

Under Ordinance No. 8646, the Manila City government shall grant tax relief in the form of a P100,000 tax credit to establishments.

The tax credit “may be applied on all forms of local business taxes, regulatory fees and services, including the appropriate surcharge and penalty interests.”

“The tax credit shall be granted to all hotels, motels, dormitories and other similar establishments which accorded free lodging services to frontliners during the COVID-19 crisis as evidenced by substantial documentary proof,” the ordinance read.

The tax credit may be claimed within three years from the enactment of the ordinance, it said.

Domagoso previously issued Executive Order No. 17, commandeering hotels and motels in Manila to provide free lodging for healthcare workers based in facilities in the nation’s capital. “[I] do hereby order all the motels and hotels in the city of Manila to accommodate the health workers of 6 hospitals of Manila, including those of the national government hospitals, as their staging area in going to and coming from city hospitals and national government hospitals,” Domagoso said in a Facebook live address on March 18.

ERRATUM

IN THE Standard article “LSIs mistakenly ferried to CdO” by Nash B. Maulana dated July 10, 2020, 2GO Shipping Lines was described as a subsidiary of the Aboitiz Group.

The specific part of the article reads: “MV St. Pope John Paul is owned by 2-Go Shipping Lines, is a subsidiary of the Cebu City-based Aboitiz Company, Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal ‘Bombit’ Alonto Adiong promptly sent his staff working for the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to respond to the needs of the locally stranded persons.”

In a statement, Aboitiz Group clarified that 2GO is no longer a subsidiary of the conglomerate.

“On December 1, 2010, Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) together with its major shareholder Aboitiz & Co., Inc. (ACO) entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement with Negros Navigation Company, Inc. (NENACO) for the purchase by NENACO of the entire equity stake of AEV and ACO in AEV’s transport subsidiary Aboitiz Transport System Corporation (ATS),” it said.

The sale included all the logistics and shipping businesses of ATS, except the ship management, manning and crew management, and bulk transport businesses of ATS’s joint venture companies with the Jebsen Group of Norway, it added. The sale of ATS to NENACO was completed on December 28, 2010.

The Standard regrets this oversight and apologizes to the Aboitiz Group and its readers.

Makati padlocks illegal POGO anew after raid T

By Joel E. Zurbano

HE Makati City government padlocked an establishment in Barangay Pio del Pilar after authorities discovered it engaged in illegal online gambling operations.

Personnel from the city’s Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) shutdown the illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) firm located at 7299 J. Victor Street for failure to secure a business or mayor’s permit, and for violating general community quarantine protocols.

Camp Olivas multi-purpose hall burns down

By Jess Malabanan CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga—A multi-purpose hall in the regional police headquarters here was gutted by a fire that broke out late Thursday evening.

The blaze rapidly spread to the entire building, but no one was hurt said Police Brig. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, director of the Police Regional Office 3 stationed in the City of San Fernando.

On his Facebook page, Sermonia narrated how quickly the fire, of still unknown origin, gutted the studio of PRO3 “Rektang Konek,” a social media action center being shown on UNTV and FB live, which the general hosts.

Firefighters from nearby towns rushed to help douse the fire but failed to do so in time.

Sermonia said the multi-purpose hall is a state-of-the art building constructed during the term of his predecessors.

He said it was also utilized as temporary mini-food bank, where food and non-food logistics donated by different non-governmental organization for calamity victims were stored.

The building also served as a venue of different police activities, including conferences and meetings with top brass of the Philippine National Police, said Sermonia.

He expressed thanks that no further damage was incurred after the fire that lasted for almost two hours.

The regional director’s quarters, where Sermonia stays, is situated at the back of the multi-purpose hall.

The Bureau of Fire Protection arson investigators hinted that faulty electrical wiring might have tripped and caused the fire due to power surges.

Cost of damages was likewise to be determined.

Mayor Abigail Binay also ordered the BPLO to conduct inspections on other business establishments to ensure compliance amid the coronavirus disease pandemic.

On Monday, the Makati City Police raided the establishment and arrested at least 50 Chinese nationals.

The authorities conducted the raid following confidential information regarding an illegal POGO owned and operated by a Chinese national named Hua Xin. Various laptop computers, electronic devices and gadgets, mobile phones, personal computers, broadbands, WI-FI routers and other gaming paraphernalia were seized during the police operation.

Police said the establishment also violated the government’s policy suspending all POGO operations and its service providers for the duration of

the community quarantine in Luzon to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease.

Those arrested were charged with violation of Article 151 in relation to Executive Order 11 (General Community Quarantine), Presidential Decree 1602 (Illegal Gambling), and Republic Act 10175 (Cyber Crime) before the city prosecutors office.

Mayor Binay had declared an indefinite moratorium on the issuance of new business licenses and permits to service providers of POGO due to rising criminality and prostitution in southern Metro Manila.

She cited the “overheating” market for residential and commercial space and the rising criminality and prostitution as major reasons for her decision to stop more POGOs from operating in the country’s financial district.

Caloocan: P3k fine for not wearing face mask

By Jun David THE Caloocan City Council passed an ordinance slapping a fine of P3,000 on anyone caught wandering its streets and not wearing a face mask in public places in the city.

In City Ordinance No. 0862 authored

by Councilors Enteng Malapitan and Rose Mercado, paying up to P3,000 or a month in jail will be a punishment to anyone who violates the law.

According to Mayor Oscar “Oca” Malapitan, the law was intentionally created because of the increasing number of positive cases of COVID-19, with most people leaving their houses without a face mask.

Areas covered by the ordinance include public offices, restaurants,

NOW OPEN. The Province of Batangas announces the opening of the Philippine Red Cross - Batangas Molecular Laboratory. Officials are glad to have the laboratory up and running to benefit its people and the different economic zones, techno-parks, and industrial zones. Benjamin Chavez

malls, convenience stores, cafes, markets, parks, playgrounds, motels/ hotels, condominiums and transport terminals.

Those who will not abide with the law face the fine or a month in jail. There will be no community service offered unlike in other cities, Mayor Malapitan said.

Meanwhile, in response to the National Government’s directive to lower the number of positive cases in COVID-19, Caloocan City instituted the “BIDA” program.

Mayor Malapitan says BIDA stands for “Bawal ang walang Mask, I-sanitize ang mga kamay, Dumistansiya ng isang metro, at Alamin ang Totoong Impormasyon.”

The mayor said BIDA is an effective strategy against COVID-19.

14 villages in Pasay ‘critical’ for coronavirus FOURTEEN barangays in Pasay City were declared as critical areas and placed under tight watch following the surge of COVID-19 cases there.

The city government declared the villages as critical areas for two weeks, starting on July 8. These are Barangays 14, 34, 37, 42, 46, 106, 144, 169, 171,183, 184, 190, 193, and 201, the city’s public information office stated in its advisory Friday.

Mayor Imelda Rubiano made the decision following a meeting with City Administrator Dennis Acorda and officials of City Health Office, the Philippine National Police, the Public Order and Safety Unit, and concerned barangays.

Last Thursday, the city government recorded 33 new cases, bringing to 1,129 the total number of persons tested positive with the coronavirus.

Mayor Rubiano instructed the police and barangay officials to ensure residents follow the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) as well as ordinances passed by the Pasay City council.

These include the wearing of face masks in public, strict observation of physical distancing and limited movement of people going outside residences.

“Let us continue wearing face masks, avoid crowded places, avoid close-contact settings such as closerange conversations, avoid confined and closed spaces with poor ventilation, and frequently wash your hands,” said Rubiano.

The city chief executive also reminded businesses to ensure their customers have face masks and to see to it that one of their personnel or security guards are checking physical distancing while queuing.

Joel E. Zurbano

QC Justice Hall closed after 4 test positive

By Rio N. Araja QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has ordered the closure of the Hall of Justice building and its annex after four court officers and employees tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

In a July 7 letter, Belmonte – who herself tested positive for the coronavirus -- told Regional Trial Court’s Executive Judge Cecilyn Burgos-Villavert and Metropolitan Trial Court’s Executive Judge Ace Alagar of her decision to temporarily shut down the Hall of Justice building and its annex.

“The City Epidemiological and Disease Surveillance Unit (CESU) advised the City of the necessity for urgent action to prevent an outbreak,” her letter read.

Belmonte said the temporary closure is an emergency containment measure to save lives, and that it will last for seven days or until the CESU completes the appropriate testing and containment measures.

The city government is in constant consultation and coordination with the executive judges concerned, along with the city’s health department and the Office of the Court Administrator, toward testing and health monitoring of court personnel and their clientele, the mayor assured.

Belmonte said she is authorized under Section 6 (e) of Republic Act 11332 to enforce measures during epidemic or outbreak to prevent spread of disease.

The move is in accordance with Section 13 of Office of the Court Administrator Circular No. 101-2020 authorizing local government units to impose lockdowns in city halls wherein courts are located, she added.

Opinion ELIZABETH ANGSIOCO THE fate of ABS-CBN’s franchise was decided by 85 members of the House of Representatives’ (HOR) Committee on Legislative Franchises. The Committee’s Te c h n i c a l Wo r k i n g G r o u p ( T W G ) recommended the rejection of the bills to renew the network’s franchise.

With a vote of 70 for the TWG recommendation, 11 against, two inhibitions, and one abstention, the entire House, in effect, KILLED the network’s chances for a franchise.

Earlier, Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said that members should vote according to their conscience. If, indeed, this was what happened, what kind of a conscience do those who voted yes to the TWG recommendation have?

ABS-CBN is far from perfect.

Its Dengvaxia coverage was quite problematic and helped create vaccine-scare from which the country has yet to recover from. Some of its programs dumbed audiences down and discouraged critical thinking. There were sexist and homophobic innuendoes that made me cringe. There were a lot of improvements that thinking audiences would have wanted to see in the network.

But there is no question that it deserved a franchise. I have followed most, if not all, the lengthy hearings on the ABS-CBN franchise renewal bills. One need not be a genius to conclude that the right thing to do was to grant that franchise.

All the government agencies—save for the National Telecommunications Commission—that appeared in the hearings said that the network did not commit any violation in relation to the eight issues hurled against it. Representatives Marcoleta, Defensor, Remulla and Barzaga did not prove any wrongdoing contrary to what they claimed.

According to the Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission, Gabby Lopez is 100 percent Filipino and can own a media outfit.

SEC stated that selling Philippine Depositary Receipts is legal. Though these may be sold to foreigners, these foreigners are only allowed to receive cash distribution but prohibited from owning ABSCBN stocks. In fact, GMA network’s PDRs are exactly the same as those of ABS’ except for the price.

Yet GMA and others doing the same are not targeted.

SEC said that holding companies are perfectly legal. Many big corporations here also have holding companies and they continue to operate without problems.

While no franchise can last longer than 50 years per the Constitution, such can be renewed and this is what ABS-CBN and a host of other networks have been doing.

Block timing is perfectly legal and done by all networks. Selling of black boxes is also legal since no one is coerced to pay for programs they do not like. GMA does the same.

ABS-CBN faced and still faces labor cases. According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), it lost some but

won some of these cases. If we look close enough, other networks also have similar labor cases.

Both the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said that ABS-CBN had been paying the correct taxes even as the network has availed of laws to reduce such taxes. This is perfectly legal and also done by other companies, big and small.

What kind of conscience do the lawmakers who voted to deny the franchise have?

When it comes to bias, it should be emphasized that all networks and all media outfits have biases. However, this is about press freedom that is fully guaranteed by the Constitution. Media outfits are there to provide information, news, and analysis of such. Acting as propaganda machine for politicians is not their work.

Yet, the Committee turned deaf and blind to what actually transpired in its hearings. It killed he franchise bills. In reality however, the Committee’s decision killed more than just the bills.

It killed the right to information of millions of Filipinos in far-flung areas and unreached by other stations. They are now deprived of important and life-saving information especially during this pandemic; It killed the right to information of millions of overseas Filipinos whose sole source of news about events in their homeland, as well as entertainment was ABSCBN. It killed the right to choose of all Filipinos by closing a major option as source of information, news, and entertainment.

It killed the right to employment of the 11,000 ABS-CBN workers, who, as of July 10 have been added to the many millions who have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Surely, their families will equally suffer during this very difficult time.

It contributes to the killing of the freedom of the press because surely, this decision will have a strong chilling effect on other media outfits. The quality of reportage and analysis will likely be affected.

It will help kill investor confidence in the country because no investor would like to be targeted and suffer as ABS-CBN has. No business would like to be shut down on the basis of politics.

Will the Committee’s decision kill the Lopez family? No. It will financially hurt them but they will not crumble. They are not new to this. They can afford to wait a few years then again apply for another franchise. Should the Lopezes decide to make ABS-CBN rise again, it will.

The HOR Comm. on Legislative Franchises killed a lot more than just the franchise bills. What kind of a conscience would do this? @bethangsioco on Twitter Elizabeth Angsioco on Facebook

E

XASPERATING really, even from where we sit as observers, as we watch law enforcement agents implement the protocols and restrictions on people who may be in their view violating quarantine rules.

CHARLIE V. MANALO THIS one makes sense.

Earlier this week, Senator Francis Tolentino said he would file a bill seeking to amend the National Internal Revenue Code and the Telecommuting Act to provide additional tax deduction benefits to workers forced to work from home during quarantine.

And of course they deserve that.

Tolentino noted that the community quarantine imposed in response to the coronavirus pandemic forced ordinary workers to work from home incurred them additional electricity expenses while their employers enjoyed lower expenses.

According to the lawmaker, he will file on Monday a “win-win” measure for both employees and employers, and even for the government, as it would still collect Value Added Taxes from electric bills.

“What I am contemplating to file on Monday is to amend the tax structure in such a way that those who are working outside their usual offices would now be granted a fixed month-

ly tax deduction when they pay their income tax or the employer will just give a fixed amount to their employees working at their homes,” Tolentino said.

The additional benefit for the employees, Tolentino adds, will then be considered as business expenses and thereafter deductible on the part of the employer, thus “a win-win situation for both employees and employers.”

Tolentino said he was looking at three options for the proposal, including requiring the employee to attach a form in his or her income tax return indicating how much the deduction should be, requiring employers to compute such deductions due at the end of the tax year, requiring employers to give a fixed amount to employees every month as subsidy for the latter’s electricity expenses.

While many will argue that the employees who were forced to work from home got savings from their provisions for transportation expenses as they no longer have to leave the comforts of their home while working, it should also be noted that other overhead expenses for the business establishments, aside from electricity, were also passed on to them like water, office supplies, maintenance of office and its equipment including its

Irksome mask violation, another term for not wearing the mask at the time of apprehension.

But somewhere near the “violator” the enforcers had lost their mother wit, their innate common sense translated into sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts.

Common sense does not seem to be common.

We are one with these agents, including the police who are on the streets on the catbird seat for those who may be ignoring, and therefore in their view violating, the protocols being implemented by the health authorities and the COVID-19 Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

One ludicrous, if infuriating, scenario was the case this month of COVID-19 survivor Howie Severino who was “briefly detained”

by Quezon City law enforcers for alleged face

B1

The facts, which were beyond appreciation by the overly enthusiastic law enforcers, included Severino “talking without my mask covering my mouth” when he was approached by law enforcers, soon after he, millisecond, pulled his mask down to con-

sume his drink bought at a nearby store.

We find the absence of common sense and fellow feeling in that situation, the facts of the case clear Severino's words: “We bought drinks at the store next door, and drank them after pulling down our masks below the mouth (because we have not learned to drink yet with masks on). We were all outdoors where the risk of infection is much lower than indoors and maintained at least four feet distance from each other.”

We need to heal as one, why not indeed?

But we like to believe those who made the “arrest” or “invitation” for Severino to go to the crowded Amoranto gymnasium for a seminar were not robots but thinking bipeds who had untarnished copybook emotional intelligence.

Irritatingly irksome, that face mask framework.

Danger in the President’s political decisions Part II THE President must bear in mind that the US has an axe to grind against him for veering close to China. This renewed coziness has recycled the past when the opposition represented by the Liberal Party, the terrorist communist and their front organizations, the oligarchy, the obscurantist church and the wayward petty-intellectuals were united in marching to advance US interest in the name of “freedom” and “democracy.”

If Robredo managed to get away in defrauding the people in 2016, there is no reason why she cannot not do it again with the people fed with issues designed to agitate political passion against the Duterte administration. In fact, this fiercely anti-clerical Duterte has all the more heightened church leaders to use the pulpit to lambast the government. As long as the handlers of this phony vice president are around to manipulate the result, there is practically nothing impossible for her not to grab the top slot.

For PET not coming out with a decision could spell omen to Digong‘s political plans.

This issue is now subject of speculation why President Duterte has not abrogated our contract with Smartmatic. This could only mean that Smartmatic can continue its syndicated operations of defrauding the people. Most political analysts realize that Smartmatic remains under the directional guidance of the bankrupt empire. For the pretension that it is a Venezuelan-based corporation represented here by a certain Marlon Garcia but owned by an American named Mark Maloof, one cannot deny that its principal objective is to advance US interest.

This means ousting Duterte is something they cannot bargain to forestall the possibility of a redux of the so-called Edsa “people power.” Recalling the ouster of Marcos as their glory, they now focus on Digong, and see him as a marked man of the CIA.

WFH employees deserve additional benefits NAKED THOUGHT

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

EDITORIAL

Killed POWER POINT

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

depreciation from use, etc.

And since these are all expenses business establishments used to charge to their expenditures but which ware now being shouldered by the work-from-home employees, it is but right that they be given additional benefits, also passable as expenses for the companies.

No additional losses for the companies and the government and no additional burden for the employees. ***

A senator says he has a win-win solution for both employers and employees.

Still on electricity.

Last Monday, the Manila Electric Co. assured lawmakers that customers are only charged for electricity they actually consumed and pledged that the Philippines’ largest power distributor will clarify concerns caused by estimated bills between March and May, the period when the government imposed an enhanced community quarantine to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKBENCHER

ROD P. KAPUNAN It is for this why the followers of BBM felt betrayed. They could sense that history is heading for a repetition of the political perdition in 1986. Thus, if the President allows PET not to come out with a decision, that could be construed as written on the wall, a proclamation of this fraudulent vice president.

I thought Duterte hated graft and corruption?

Whatever the decision is, nothing could prevent him from prevailing upon the phony vice president not to aim for the top gun.

Paradoxically, many are hesitant to predict that Digong will nominate BBM, for that implies he is recognizing that Marcos won in the election, and could add strength to the administration ticket. Some even suspect PET is waiting their cue from the President of deciding what will favor his political plan.

Hiring Smartmatic is a specialized form of graft and corruption motivated solely to wrest political power. It is not only an aberration to our democracy but complete distortion of what it stands for. Hence, when Duterte made it clear that he hates graft and corruption with the same passion of wanting to eradicate drugs, people simply look at each other. The retention of Smartmatic

According to Meralco President, lawyer Ray Espinosa, a clarificatory letter will be sent out to customers soon, particularly those whose meters were read in May but whose bills contain a previous reading that is actually based on estimated March and/or April consumption.

At the same time, Espinosa assured everyone “there is no intention on the part of Meralco to charge a customer and have that customer pay more than the actual consumption registered in the meter,” at the same time apologizing for what he described for Meralco’s “short coming as far as the May bills are concerned which has really caused confusion because of estimates.”

Meralco had earlier issued several explanations through various traditional and social media platforms to detail the bill estimations done for March, April and, in some cases, May in compliance with the Energy Regulatory Commission rules for cases when meter readers can’t be deployed.

In fact, Espinosa said Meralco even went beyond the coverage of ERC’s advisory, which only starts from March 16 and ends on May 31 as Meralco even included customer bills due from March 1.

He also said that Meralco has implemented a moratorium on service disconnection until September 30 this year.

As an added service to its clienteles, Espinosa also announced that the

is the biggest blot mark to the Duterte administration. It symbolizes how this country was entrapped to what the US has been telling as their pinnacle to our democracy.

Smartmatic is the biggest insult to our sovereignty, for while the operators allegedly guarantee a clean, free and honest election, we paid billions of pesos only to be cheated in the end. We have to swallow an accidental, stupid and after-mortuary choice we could not regurgitate.

For this administration's inability to unscrew the lock, people now suspect whether Duterte has the political will to do away with the enslavement agreement. We have become a pariah, for essentially the result of our election is not the choice of the people, but that of Smartmaric representing clowns ranging from peddlers of religion, downright demagogues, holier than thou hypocrites, salesmen of our national patrimony and sovereignty, and agents of the oligarchy whose assignment is to protect the interest of the bankrupt US Empire that today is doing every conceivable gimmick to swindle and bully this country.

The phony vice president appears more regularly in the media than the President truly elected by the people. Every pronouncement she dishes out is to criticize our President. The phony seems to control all major news outlets without the people knowing that her unlimited exposure is designed to boost her candidacy. Many wonder why the gutsy president we elected now appears not to have the nerve to do away with Smartmatic when we wanted it abolished. Even the head of Smartmatic here, after performing the circus of defrauding the Filipinos people and collecting his fat fee, is now out of our jurisdiction together with the now-fugitive head of the Comelec pointing their dirty finger at us.

Full version at www.manilastandard.net

company will now shoulder the Meralco Online convenience fee for online payments, for the entire ECQ and GCQ period, and will correspondingly refund the amount paid by customers when they previously settled their electricity bills.

I personally agree that these bills generated by estimates have cause so much confusion as they were far from accurate. One of my friends who was caught in their Rizal abode during the lockdown was charged with her monthly bill consumption in the condo unit in Cubao when there was actually no one staying there during the entire duration of the quarantine.

Some were even under-billed for the months of March and April as they were only based on their previous consumption even as their electric usage had surged when they were forced to work from home, resorting to downloading movies, playing online games, etc. thus the bill-shock when the previous under-billing was included in the May bill when their meters were actually read.

Anyway, I am optimistic these “shortcomings” will be corrected as Mr. Espinosa had assured us. Even Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco vice president and spokesman, has assured us that he will see to it we will not pay a single centavo for any electricity we have not consumed.

And I see no reason not to believe him.

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandard.net

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Seoul mayor takes own life after #MeToo

Kim’s sister says ‘no need’ for new US-Nokor summit

THE mayor of Seoul, a contender to be South Korea’s next president and a former human rights lawyer, took his own life a day after he was accused of sexual harassment, authorities said Friday.

Park Won-soon, whose body was recovered on a mountain in the capital, is by far the most high-profile politician to be implicated in a harassment case in South Korea, a highly patriarchal society where the #MeToo movement has led to the fall of scores of prominent men in multiple fields.

Park offered a general apology in a suicide note—handwritten with ink and brush—found at his official residence and released by city authorities.

“I’m sorry to everyone. I thank everyone who has been with me in my life,” he wrote, asking to be cremated and his ashes scattered at his parents’ graves. “I’m sorry to my family, to whom I only caused pain.”

“Bye everyone,” he signed off, without referring to the allegations against him.

A heavyweight figure in the ruling center-left Democratic party, Park ran South Korea’s sprawling capital—home to almost a fifth of the national population—for nearly a decade.

He won three elections while promoting gender and social equality, and did not shy away from expressing his ambitions to replace incumbent President Moon Jae-in in 2022.

His death came a day after his former A forensic team carries the body of Seoul mayor Park Won-soon following reports that he had been missing since Thursday. Park, long secretary filed a police complaint—said to seen as a potential South Korean presidential candidate, has been found dead, Yonhap news agency reported police as saying. Park was involve sexual harassment—against him. reportedly facing allegations of sexual misconduct. AFP According to a document purporting to be the statement of Park’s victim, who worked as his personal secretary from 2015, he committed “sexual harassment and inappropriate gestures during work hours,” including insisting she hug him in the bedroom adjoining his office. AFP

THE powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Friday there was “no need” for another summit with the United States unless Washington offered a “decisive change” in approach.

Kim and US President Donald Trump first met in Singapore two years ago but talks over Pyongyang’s nuclear arsenal have been stalled since their Hanoi summit collapsed in early 2019 over what the North would be willing to give up in exchange for sanctions relief.

Trump said this week he would “certainly” meet with Kim again “if I thought it was going to be helpful,” after speculation that he might pursue another summit if it could help his re-election chances in November.

But in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, Kim Yo Jong – who has emerged as one of her brother’s closest advisers – said: “There is no need for us to sit across with the US right now.”

If a summit was held, she said, “it is too obvious that it will only be used as boring boasting coming from someone’s pride.”

Denuclearization, she added, was “not possible at this point,” and could only happen alongside parallel “irreversible simultaneous major steps” by the other side—which she emphasized did not refer to sanctions lifting.

She did not go into specifics, but Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it against its neighbor, and has a range of military assets in Japan and the wider Pacific region. AFP

Manila

Standard

TODAY

Biden unveils $700b recovery plan J

ORIENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE (ORMECO, Inc.) Brgy. Sta. Isabel, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro

INVITATION TO BID 1.

ORIENTAL MINDORO ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (ORMECO, INC.), through its BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE (BAC), hereby intends to apply the sum of Nineteen Million Four Hundred Sixty One Thousand Seven Hundred Fifteen Pesos (Php 19,461,715.00), inclusive of all applicable taxes and fees, being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC), for the procurement, supply, and delivery materials/supplies/equipment for the Technical Services Department;

2.

ORMECO, INC. now calls for the submission of Letter of Intent by interested bidders. The list of the ORMECO, INC. Eligibility Requirements may be viewed at ormeco-inc.com, https://web.facebook.com/OrmecoOGMOfficial, and may be requested through email ormeco_coop@yahoo.com, including the numbers listed above. An amount of two hundred fifty pesos (Php 250.00) is required as Accreditation Fee;

3.

ORMECO, INC. now invites suppliers for the following: ABC (INCLUSIVE OF VAT)

FUNDING SOURCE

LOT

ITEM DESCRIPTION

I

Supply of Fuse Cutouts, Arresters and Distribution Reconditioned Transformers

Php 1,117,500.00

II-A

1. Supply of Construction Materials for Line Distribution

Php 4,832,320.00

II-B

2. Cross arm steel and fiber glass

Php 449,000.00

COST OF BID DOCUMENTS (NONREFUNDABLE) Php 5,000.00 Php 10,000.00

Kilowatt Hour Meters (“Single Phase, KWH meter 10(60)A; KWH meter cover for bottom connected (anti-theft); Electronic Kwh meter, Single Phase, CLASS 100; III-A

Meter Base Socket, CL-100, 4 JAWS, 100 Amp.,600V; Electronic Kwh meter, Single Phase, CLASS 200, Form 1S; Meter Base Socket, Panel Type, CL200, 4 JAWS, 200 Amp, 600V;

Php 3,546,000.00 Php 10,000.00

5% Reinvestment Fund

Kwh meter, 3 Phase, CLASS 20, FM48Am, 4W, 60Hz, 120-480V”) III-B

1. Duplex conductors

Php 5,074,500.00

III-C

2. Fuse Links

Php 1,336,125.00

IV-A

1. Fabricated rewinding machine, Insulation Resistance tester 10KV, fabricated Oven (Supply of labor & materials)

IV-B

2. Magnetic wires

IV-C

3. Mineral Transformer Oil (PCB free)

Php 200,000.00

4. Accessory Materials for In-house repair of damage transformers

Php 322,100.00

IV-D 4.

5.

Php 479,000.00 Php 2,105,170.00

Php 5,000.00

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the NEA Memorandum NO. 2017-019: Revised Procurement Guidelines and Simplified Bidding Procedures for Electric Cooperatives, IRR-RA 10531 (2017); The schedule of bidding activities is as follows: ACTIVITIES

SCHEDULE

Release of Invitation to Bid

11 July 2020 (Saturday)

Submission of Letter of Intent/Availability of Bidding Documents

13-18 July 2020 Office Hours, at ORMECO, INC. Office of the General Manager 21 July 2020 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

Pre-Bid Conference 22 July 2020 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

2:00 pm for Lot I 3:00 pm for Lot II 2:00 pm for Lot III 3:00 pm for Lot IV

Deadline of Bid Submission Opening, and Evaluation of Bids

4 August 2020 (Tuesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

2:00 pm for Lot I

Deadline of Bid Submission Opening, and Evaluation of Bids

5 August 2020 (Wednesday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

2:00 pm for Lot II

Deadline of Bid Submission Opening, and Evaluation of Bids

6 August 2020 (Thursday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

2:00 pm for Lot III

Deadline of Bid Submission Opening, and Evaluation of Bids

7 August 2020 (Friday) at ORMECO, INC. Board Room

Post-Qualification

10-11 Aug 2020 (Monday and Tuesday)

Approval through Board Resolution and Issuance of Notice of Award

Board Meeting for the Month of August 2020

Delivery Schedule

To be announced during the Pre-Bid Conference

2:00 pm for Lot IV

6.

Only those who have bought the Bidding Documents shall be allowed to attend or participate during the Pre-Bidding Conference, where their presence is MANDATORY;

7.

All bids shall be opened and read in the presence of Bidders or their duly authorized representatives. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security payable to ORMECO, INC., in the form of Cash, Cashier’s Check, Manager’s Check, issued by a Universal or Commercial Bank equivalent to two percent (2%) of the ABC.

8.

The winning bidder shall issue Performance Security in the form of Cash, Cashier’s Check, Manager’s Check, issued by a Universal or Commercial Bank, equivalent to five percent (5%) of the ABC; and

9.

ORMECO, INC. reserves the right to accept or reject any bids, declare failure of bidding and not to award the contract without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders. ORMECO, INC. also has no responsibility whatsoever to compensate or indemnify bidders for any expenses incurred in the preparation of their bids.

(MS-JULY 11, 2020)

Certified by: (Signed) VICENTE V. FERRERA Chairperson Bids and Awards Committee (BAC)

Noted by: (Signed) ATTY. NORBERTO M. MENDOZA Head Of Procuring Entity (HOPE)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK OE Biden unveiled a $700 billion plan Thursday industries like battery technology, arintelligence, biotechnologies to create jobs and invest in new technologies in an tificial and clean energy. “That’s the future.” aggressive challenge to President Donald Trump Biden said he rejects the “defeatist view” that automation and globalizaon economic policy, as the warring sides clashed in tion will sap well-paid US jobs. key election battleground Pennsylvania.

“American manufacturing was the functioning arsenal of democracy in The Democratic challenger pre- jobs by investing in domestic produc- World War II, and has to be part of the sented his sweeping “Build Back Bet- tion and research and shrinking for- engine of new prosperity in America ter” proposal, a contrast to Trump’s eign supply chains. now,” he said.

“America first” agenda, during a The multi-pronged approach also Biden’s plan to protect American speech at a metalworks plant in a tightens “Buy America” guidelines, workers underscores a recognition swing state critical to either candi- promotes new tax rules including hik- that, despite Trump’s poor job apdate’s victory in November. ing the corporate tax rate to 28 per- proval numbers, voters still see him Vice President Mike Pence was si- cent from 21 percent, and expands as stronger than Biden on handling the multaneously barnstorming Pennsyl- union access to empower American economy. vania, defending his boss’ handling of workers.

But Biden drew a sharp contrast the coronavirus pandemic and assur“That’s what my plan is, to build with his billionaire rival, highlighting voters that Trump was best quali- back better,” Biden told ironworkers ing his working-class upbringing and fied to revive the sputtering economy. after touring their 101-year-old factory even making a side-trip to his old Biden’s manufacturing and innova- near Scranton, the blue-collar city where Scranton neighborhood. tion plan aims to bring back positions the former vice president grew up.

Trump won in 2016 largely on the lost during the coronavirus pandemic, The goal, he said, is “to sharpen promise of bringing back lost manuand create more than five million new America’s competitive edge” in new facturing jobs. AFP

China to impose ‘reciprocal’ measures vs US CHINA said Friday it will impose tit-for-tat measures on US institutions and individuals who “behave badly” on Xinjiang-related issues after Washington slapped sanctions on Chinese officials over a crackdown on Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in the region.

The Chinese response came after the US announced visa bans and an assets freeze on three officials, including Chen Quanquo, the Chinese Communist Party chief in Xinjiang and architect of Beijing’s hardline policies against restive minorities.

“The US actions seriously interfere in China’s internal affairs, seriously violate the basic norms of international relations, and seriously damage China-US relations,” foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said in a briefing.

“In response to the wrong actions of the US, China has decided to impose reciprocal measures against the relevant US institutions and individuals who behave badly on Xinjiang-related issues,” Zhao said without providing details about the sanctions.

Witnesses and human rights groups say that China has rounded up more than one million Uighurs and other Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang in a vast brainwashing campaign aimed at forcibly homogenizing minorities into the country’s Han majority.

China counters that the facilities are benign vocational education centres where “students” learn Mandarin and job skills in an effort to eradicate extremism following a spate of deadly violence. AFP

REHEARSAL. A Cougar AS532 helicopter flies over the Eiffel Tower and the

city of Paris on July 9, 2020 during a rehearsal ahead of a ceremony which will be held on Place de la Concorde, as the Bastille Day traditional military parade on the Champs-Elysees avenue is canceled over the COVID-19 pandemic. AFP

Malaysia police probe journalists MALAYSIAN police Friday questioned five Australian journalists from Al Jazeera over a documentary about the plight of migrants which authorities have denounced as inaccurate, as the broadcaster expressed shock at the probe.

The investigation into the Qatarbased network’s program has added to concerns about a widening media crackdown in Malaysia after a scandal-plagued party came to power earlier this year.

In addition to the Al Jazeera case, the head of a leading news portal has been accused of contempt of court while a health news site’s editor is being probed over an article.

The documentary, “Locked Up in Malaysia’s Lockdown,” looked at

the detention of undocumented foreigners during a coronavirus lockdown, as well as the plight of other members of the migrant community.

But the government decried it as misleading and inaccurate, and police are now investigating the broadcaster for breaking laws against sedition, defamation and transmitting offensive content.

On Friday six Al Jazeera staff members were called in for questioning by police in Kuala Lumpur over the documentary made for “101 East,” a weekly show featuring in-depth investigations.

Five of the six are Australian, according to Australian union the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance. AFP

Business PSEi July 10, 2020 TOP GAINERS

Stock market up slightly; SM Prime, Meralco climb S TOCKS rose slightly Friday, lifted by lastminute buying that erased losses in the early session of trading.

TOP LOSERS

B3

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index added 4.8 points, or 0.08 percent, to 6,197.38 on a value turnover of P5.2 billion. Losers, however, beat gainers, 115 to 82, with 47 issues unchanged.

SM Prime Holdings Inc. of the Sy Group advanced 4.6 percent to P31.90, while Manila Electric Co., the biggest retailer of electricity, climbed 2.9 percent to P278.

JG Summit Holdings Inc. of the Gokongwei Group rose 2.5 percent to P69.70, but major property developer Ayala Land Inc. fell 2.9 percent to P32.

The rest of Asian markets sank Friday as rising virus infection rates across the world put the brakes on the latest rally.

Equities have shown a healthy resil-

ience to the rapid spread of the disease around the world, with hopes for the economic recovery, the easing of lockdowns and government largesse providing crucial support.

But several days of figures showing a record number of new cases in populous US states including Florida, Texas and California―leading to the reimposition of containment measures―were beginning to sink in.

The Dow fell more than one percent and the S&P 500 also dropped, with traders unmoved by data showing the number of US workers filing for unemployment benefits last week fell by 99,000.

Analysts warned the figure remained high and the latest re-closures in some states could lead to fresh layoffs.

Asia tracked the New York losses, with profit-taking also playing a part after a broadly strong week.

Hong Kong led the selling, diving more than two percent as a fresh out-

break in the city prompted authorities to reimpose measures including the closure of schools.

Tokyo ended 1.1 percent down and Shanghai, which has been surging over the past week, lost two percent with Bloomberg News reporting that state-backed funds were easing back on their investments to put a brake on the rally.

Sydney slipped 0.6 percent and Seoul shed 0.8 percent while Taipei dropped one percent, with losses also seen in Wellington, Mumbai and Jakarta.

A lockdown in Australia’s secondbiggest city Melbourne and the sprouting of new clusters in Hong Kong, which had gone weeks without any new cases, added to the worry.

Analysts also pointed out that while global markets have enjoyed healthy gains, those have mostly come thanks to traders moving into tech firms, which are more likely to benefit from further lockdowns. With AFP

FAREWELL.

A portrait of late Macau tycoon Stanley Ho (center) is displayed on a live feed monitor in a room for the media during his funeral in Hong Kong on July 10, 2020.

Ho, who was known as the “godfather” of Macau casinos, died at the age of 98 on May 26 and was instrumental in turning the city on China’s southern coast into a gambling boomtown, with gaming revenue surpassing Las Vegas. AFP

MOST ACTIVE

New COVID-19 spike crushing travel demand, says Delta CEO NEW YORK―After a brief uptick in flying interest this spring, the jump in US coronavirus cases has crushed travel demand during the normally busy summer season, the head of Delta Air Lines said Thursday, warning of job cuts ahead.

Delta Chief Executive Ed Bastian said surging coronavirus cases in the US Sun Belt necessitates “renewed caution” about returning planes to service that were grounded to save money and he urged workers to consider the airline’s voluntary exit program to “minimize involuntary furloughs.”

The carrier is operating at only about 30 percent of its normal July schedule, Bastian said in a memo to employees, and the situation is “clearly not sustainable over the long-term.”

The memo comes a day after United Airlines warned it could lay off as many as 36,000 workers on October 1, depending on how many workers accept voluntary exit packages.

The announcements underscore how US carriers are poised to shred tens of thousands of jobs despite a huge government bailout.

As part of the Cares Act relief programs, Delta and other major carriers received billions of funds in payroll support and loans but under the terms of the deal cannot lay off workers until after September 30.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the airline CEOS “want to keep as many employees as they can.”

“We need to have air travel when the economy rebounds,” he said Thursday on CNBC. Earlier this week, he said Delta and United were among the companies that signed letters of intent for a Treasury program to provide $25 billion in secured loans to the airline industry.

But it is unclear when demand for travel will rebound amid a spike in COVID-19 in states like Florida, Texas and California, where governors have reimposed some lockdown measures or suspended their reopening protocols. AFP

Hardliners hint Britain’s retail stores shed thousands of jobs despite government aid of compromise on EU recovery fund BERLIN, Germany―Austria and the Netherlands, two of the so-called “frugal four” that have opposed a proposed EU coronavirus recovery package, showed signs they may be softening their stance on Thursday.

The 27 EU states’ leaders meet in Brussels next week for a crunch summit aimed at agreeing the 750-billion euro ($843-billion) plan to tackle economic devastation wreaked by the pandemic.

Austria, Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden have said they want to rein in the spending, which is earmarked mainly for the hardest-hit poorer countries of southern Europe.

But Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said Thursday he considered the proposed fund “very important,” so long as the cash came with conditions attached.

“It also is very important that such a fund is implemented together with reforms so that all EU member states are also strong,” Rutte said ahead of evening talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin.

Earlier Thursday, Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz also suggested Austria could back the package if aid was tied to certain conditions, such as climate protection, willingness to reform and rule of law.

“We want to find a compromise...

I’m glad if there is a quick solution,” Kurz said.

Together with Denmark, the Netherlands and Sweden, Austria had insisted that loans with tough conditions attached, rather than grants, should be the preferred method of rescue.

Other countries have argued that the plan misallocates the money, giving too much to eastern Europeans who were never on the front lines of the pandemic.

Merkel on Wednesday urged EU countries to show solidarity and overcome deep divisions to approve the massive coronavirus recovery plan this summer.

Alexander Dobrindt, the parliamentary leader of the Bavarian CSU conservatives in Germany, on Thursday called on Rutte to soften his stance on the non-repayable grants that make up 500 billion euros of the proposed fund. AFP

LONDON―British pharmacy giant Boots and UK department store group John Lewis said Thursday they would ax at least 5,300 jobs, despite government efforts to safeguard employment during the coronavirus pandemic.

US-owned Boots said it would shed more than 4,000 roles after Britain’s lockdown slashed sales.

John Lewis meanwhile said it did not plan to reopen eight stores forced to shut because of the lockdown, affecting 1,300 jobs.

During the pandemic, thousands of Boots and John Lewis staff have had up to 80 percent of their wages paid for by the UK government under the state’s furlough scheme, which finance minister Rishi Sunak has said must end in

October.

Replacing the scheme is a stimulus package worth ￡30 billion ($37 billion, 33 billion euros) unveiled Wednesday

by Chancellor of the Exchequer Sunak.

The new measures include bonuses handed to companies for retaining furloughed staff and for offering apprenticeships amid fears of mass youth unemployment resulting from COVID-19 fallout.

“People need to know that although hardship lies ahead, no-one will be left without hope,” Sunak told parliament Wednesday on delivering a minibudget aimed at kickstarting the UK economy devastated by the country’s lockdown.

Noting that “people are anxious about

losing their jobs, about unemployment rising,” Sunak said: “We’re not just going to accept this.”

But he insisted that the furlough scheme “cannot and should not go on forever,” with the taxpayer continuing to spend billions of pounds on paying the wages of millions of workers.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s spokesman said Thursday that while news of the retail job losses was “very worrying” for staff, the government had “put in place a very substantial package which allows businesses to draw upon a range of financial support during this challenging time.”

Boots and John Lewis on Thursday both said that online trading was becoming more central to their businesses.

John Lewis, whose physical stores were already struggling before the coronavirus outbreak as shoppers switched to online purchases, said it expected to sell the majority of its goods through the internet this year and in 2021.

“Before the virus struck, 40 percent of John Lewis sales were online,” the company said in a statement Thursday.

“This could now be closer to 60 to 70 percent of total sales this year and next.”

Among the eight shops shutting permanently is a department store in England’s second biggest city Birmingham and a much smaller outlet at London’s Heathrow airport.

John Lewis forms part of the John Lewis Partnership comprising also the upmarket Waitrose supermarkets. AFP

Fair and unlovely: India confronts dark-skin bias amid anti-racism protests

By Glenda Kwek, with Ammu Kannampilly in Mumbai and Archana Thiyagarajan in Delhi NEW DELHI―When Chandana Hiran was a child, strangers would urge her to lighten her skin. Today the Indian student is leading a campaign against whitening creams as global anti-racism protests highlight the obsession with fair complexions for many in Asia.

The campaign achieved its first victory when cosmetics giant Unilever dropped the word “fair” from its popular Fair & Lovely skin-lightening cream. L’Oreal and Johnson & Johnson announced similar initiatives.

“They have been thriving on selling insecurities to women,” 22-year-old Hiran, who launched an online petition against Fair & Lovely, told AFP. “The narrative is that if you are darkskinned, you cannot achieve anything in life. So being a dark-skinned girl I’ve always felt that maybe... I need to be fair. If I’m not, then maybe I don’t deserve those things.”

Multinationals have long profited from sales of whitening creams, facewash and even vaginal bleaching lotions, by advertising the message that beauty, success and love are only for pale-skinned people.

This picture taken on July 2, 2020 shows shoppers looking at beauty products near a shelf selling collagen whitening products, at a beauty store in Bangkok. Multinationals have long profited from sales of whitening creams, facewash and even vaginal bleaching lotions, by advertising the message that beauty, success and love are only for pale-skinned people. Now, companies like Unilever say they “want to lead the celebration of a more diverse portrayal of beauty.” AFP

Unilever made $500 million from Fair & Lovely sales in India last year, according to Bloomberg.

Now, after mounting outrage sparked by the Black Lives Matter protests in Western cities, companies like Unilever say they “want to lead the celebration of a more diverse portrayal of beauty.”

But campaigners warn their fight has

just begun and that, without greater efforts to counter entrenched bias against darker skin, the rebranding remains superficial.

Bias from birth Colorism―prejudice against darker skin tones―in India is pervasive.

While British colonialism helped fuel colorism, the bias is deeply rooted in India’s ancient caste hierarchies, experts

say.

“The assumption is the higher castes are fairer than the lower castes,” sociologist Suparna Kar of Bangalore’s Christ University told AFP. As a result, many associate pale skin with wealth and beauty―a prejudice bolstered by Bollywood films which rarely make darker-complexioned women the star and frequently portray successful city-dwellers as fairskinned.

Actress Tannishtha Chatterjee, long vocal about colorism, told AFP: “When I have been cast in urban roles, a make-up artist would come and tell me that it’s an ‘upmarket’ role, so ‘should I make the skin tone two shades lighter?’”

The bias begins at birth, said Kavitha Emmanuel, who visits schools promoting her “Dark is Beautiful” campaign launched in 2009.

“You’ll hear, ‘She’s a girl and she’s dark, oh my god, who is going to marry her? We have to... make her look fair. Don’t let her out in the sun, don’t let her play sport’.”

The prejudice shows up in school textbooks, she said, with a darkskinned person used to denote “ugliness.”

Many Indian women start using whitening products as children.AFP

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

B4

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

Business

Ayala Land’s P15.1-b REIT offer okayed IN BRIEF

DICT seeks P46.6-b allocation for 2021

THE Department of Information and Communications Technology seeks the approval of a P46.6-billion budget for fiscal year 2021 to implement the agency’s strategic programs towards digital transformation in the new normal.

DICT Secretary Gregorio Honasan II said the proposed budget was in line with the goals of the National Economic Development Authority and the Inter-Agency Task Force-Technical Working Group on Anticipatory and Forward Planning to rebuild the economy and adapt to the “new normal” of economic activity.

The DICT allotted P22.1 billion, the biggest chunk of the proposed budget, for its Digital Connectivity and Access programs, particularly the National Broadband Program, the Free Wi-Fi for All in Public Places and State Universities and Colleges Program and the Government Emergency Communications System.

“Digital connectivity and access is the foundation of digital transformation. It is only with a secure and reliable Internet connectivity for every Filipino can we implement programs and initiatives towards digitalization in various sectors of our society,” Honasan said.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

T

he Securities and Exchange Commission approved the P15.1-billion maiden share offering of Ayala Land Inc.’s real estate investment trust unit.

Ayala Land’s AREIT became the first company to file for REIT offering, after the government early this year sweetened the rules on REITs, which manage real estate assets that regularly generate profits and distribute dividends to investors.

The SEC approved AREIT’s planned offering of up to 502.57 million shares at a price of up to P30.05 per share.

Documents showed 47.864 million of the total offered shares consisted of primary shares, 430,775 million in secondary shares and 23,932 million in over-allotment shares.

AREIT will run the public offering from July 27 to 31 and debut on the Philippine Stock Exchange on Aug. 7,

based on the latest timetable it submitted to the SEC. AREIT will use the net proceeds from the sale of primary shares amounting to P1.33 billion for the expansion of its building portfolio through the acquisition of a fourth building—Teleperformance Cebu.

Ayala Land could net about P13.309 billion from the secondary offer once it fully exercised the overallotment option.

AREIT’s property portfolio consists of three commercial buildings, excluding the land on which they stand. These include Solaris One and Ayala North Exchange and, as of Feb. 1, 2020,

McKinley Exchange via lease from the sponsor.

BPI Capital Corp. will serve as the sole global coordinator for the maiden share sale while BPI Capital, UBS AG Singapore Branch, PNB Capital and Investment Corp. and SB Capital Investment Corp. will act as the joint underwriters for the offering.

Assuming that the over-allotment option was exercised, AREIT would have a public float of 49 percent upon listing. Ayala Land said it would retain a 41.61-percent shareholding in AREIT, while subsidiary AyalaLand Offices Inc. will own the remaining 9.39 percent upon completion of the public offering.

Shareholders are entitled to receive as dividends at least 90 percent of the annual distributable income of the stock corporation established principally for the purpose of owning income-generating real estate assets.

Cisco launches PH financing program

CISCO launched a three-year financing program with zero interest to help small and medium enterprises in the Philippines recover from the COVID-19 pandemic The company said SMEs would be able to purchase hardware, software solutions and services under the program.

“The world is going through an uncertain economic period and, at Cisco, we are committed to doing our part to help lighten the burden for Philippines’ SMEs,” said Karrie Ilagan, managing director of Cisco Philippines.

The pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns across the country disrupted supply chains and decreased business activities.

With the serious impact on the country’s progress, Cisco said it was crucial to provide support for the recovery of the MSME industry to ultimately provide support for the overall recovery of the national economy.

“The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a huge impact on SMEs across the country,” Ilagan said. Darwin G. Amojelar

PEMC asked to return ‘16, ‘17 overcharges

THE Energy Regulatory Commission ordered Philippine Electricity Market Corp. to refund over-collection in the market transaction fee in 2016 and 2017.

“We urge the PEMC to strictly observe the general guidelines that we have indicated in our decision for its future market transaction fee applications so that the consuming public, who will eventually bear the costs of the market transaction fee, will not be unnecessarily burdened,” ERC chairperson Agnes Devanadera said in a statement.

“As we have always instructed, stakeholders should be prudent in incurring costs, and we encourage them to be sensitive and to show empathy to the consumers who are mostly struggling at these difficult times due to the worsening pandemic,” she said.

Devanadera said the commission calculated the over-collection by getting the variance between the MTF collected in 2016 and 2017, and the ERC-approved budget of PEMC in the same period.

“The resulting variance is the amount to be refunded which shall be apportioned among all the Luzon and Visayas participants,” she said. Alena Mae S. Flores

NLEX Corp. said Friday net income fell 10 percent in the first quarter from a year ago, following the imposition of Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.

The operator of North Luzon Expressway and Subic Clark-Tarlac Expressway earned P1.3 billion in the first three months, down from P1.4 billion in the same period last year.

Revenues reached P3.4 billion, lower by 1 percent from P3.5 billion it posted in the first quarter of 2019.

“The decrease in revenues was due to the lower traffic seen during the government’s implementation of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine starting March 16, 2020 to curb the spread of Covid-19 pandemic,” NLEX said.

The average daily traffic along NLEX reached 237,228 vehicle entries, while the average daily traffic in SCTEX hit 61,802 daily entries.

The traffic figures in both expressways were lower by 10 percent than the same period last year.

NLEX said the decrease in the traffic

Friday, July 10, 2020

4.80 points 6,197.38

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

2,263,959,721 101,965 5,173542,398.69 82 115 47

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2020

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

49.4440

Japan

Yen

0.009327

0.4612

UK

Pound

1.260900

62.3439

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.129031

6.3798

Switzerland

Franc

1.063603

52.5888

Canada

Dollar

0.736594

36.4202

Singapore

Dollar

0.718288

35.5150

Australia

Dollar

0.695900

34.4081

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652238

131.137

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266631

13.1833

Brunei

Dollar

0.715717

35.3879

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000070

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.032072

1.5858

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.4622

Euro

Euro

1.128500

55.7976

Korea

Won

0.000836

0.0413

China

Yuan

0.143012

7.0711

India

Rupee

0.013308

0.6580

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.234742

11.6066

New Zealand

Dollar

0.033977

1.6800

Taiwan

Dollar

0.033988

1.6918 Source: BSP

Exports tumbled 35.6% to $3.99b in May, says PSA

By Julito G. Rada EXPORTS tumbled 35.6 percent in May to $3.99 billion from $6.20 billion a year ago as result of border restrictions imposed by the government to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

“The annual drop in May 2020 was the third month that total exports were consecutively declining,” the Philippine Statistics Authority said.

Data, however, showed the export contraction in May eased from the 50-percent drop in April, which the National Economic Development Authority said was an indication of a slight improvement in trade performance.

“The slower decline in trade performance is a welcome indication that economic activity has started to pick up with the relaxation of quarantine measures in certain areas, the gradual reopening of business, and the restarting of production in both the country and its trading partners,” said NEDA director-genera Karl Kendrick Chua.

Chua said export of manufactured goods, which account for almost 80 percent of total exports, were expected to gradually recover as the latest results of the Purchasing Managers’ Index for the Philippines rose from 40.1 in May to 49.7 in June.

The Semiconductors and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Inc. also indicated a gradual pickup in semiconductors exports in the coming months and projected a flat growth in 2020, notwithstanding the on-going lockdown in Cebu where some of the electronics firms are located.

Meanwhile, imports fell 40.6 percent in May to $5.85 billion. The decline was an improvement from the 65.3-percent drop in April.

The total external trade in goods in May amounted to $9.84 billion, down by 38.7 percent from a year ago. With imports falling faster than exports, trade deficit declined 49 percent to $1.87 billion in May from the $3.64-billion shortfall a year earlier.

This brought the trade deficit in the first five months to $9.842 billion, down 45 percent from $17.788-billion in the same period last year.

ING Bank Manila senior economist Nicholas Antonio Mapa said the ill effects of the pandemic-induced lockdowns continued to surface with trade data for May showing yet another month of steep contractions for both exports and imports.

2 1600 BSP’S DONATION. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno (center) turns over P14 million in donation to the Philippine Red Cross and the Philippine General Hospital as part of BSP’s 27th anniversary celebrations. PRC and PGH received checks worth P10 million and P4 million, respectively. With Diokno are (from left) PRC chairman Sen. Richard Gordon and PGH medical director Dr. Gerardo Legaspi.

NEDA reviewing GDP contraction estimates for 2020 THE National Economic and Development Authority said it is reviewing the gross domestic product growth estimates for 2020, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the secondquarter performance and the possibility of slow recovery in the succeeding quarters.

The inter-agency Development Budget Coordinating Committee earlier projected a 2-percent to 3.4-percent contraction this year because of the pandemic, a steep reversal of the actual 6-percent expansion in 2019.

“This [projection] is being reviewed..

We expect the second-quarter [GDP] to be worse than the first quarter [of 0.2-percent decline]. We see it more negative in the second quarter but slight improvements could be seen in the last two quarters,” acting Economic Planning Secretary Karl Chua said in an online briefing.

Chua said the impact of the enhanced

community quarantine—mostly in the second quarter—imposed by the government to contain the spread of the disease was “more severe,” as it resulted in job losses and impacted the manufacturing and tourism industry the most.

“But we are seeing gradual recovery… Once we see the latest data there could be some adjustments [in projections]…,” Chua said. He said he was now seeing at least 75 percent of the economy open.

He said the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries statistics released in the past week showed that the manufacturing sector as a whole exhibited signs of recovery. “Despite the decline in the volume of production, we saw an increase in the capacity utilization of some of the largest sub-groups, like food and beverage manufacturing in May compared to April,” he said.

Chua said digital technology could

significantly increase efficiency in business operations and public service delivery. He said online transactions would become the new standard for engaging with clients, buyers, and suppliers, therefore, both public and private sectors need to invest in digital technology.

He said the government, led by NEDA, was updating the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022, which aims for a healthy and resilient Philippines. Following its assessment of the impact of the COVID-19, an updated PDP will be released next month.

“As we transition to a new normal, the government will continue to support the recovery of the economy. We are closely working with Congress to pass the recovery program package, which includes both fiscal and financial sector provisions to support healthcare, as well as affected firms and workers,” he said.

Julito G. Rada

NLEX Corp.’s profit slipped 10% in Q1

By Darwin G. Amojelar

PSE INDEX CLOSING

figures were offset by the implementation of toll adjustments in the open system arising from the completion of Segment 10 project effective March 21, 2019.

“However as, restrictions were eased, starting in May we have seen a significant improvement in the number of vehicles using the NLEX and SCTEX,” the company said.

It said that on top of toll revenues, NLEX also generated revenues from advertising, toll services and utility facilities and rental and service income in the first quarter amounting to P73 million, up by 1 percent from P72 million in the same period last year.

NLEX spans about 102 kilometers or 573-lane kilometers and services an average of 270,718 vehicles per day in 2019. The NLEX is the main infrastructure backbone that connects Metro Manila to Central and Northern Luzon.

SCTEX, on the other hand, is a 91km, 2x2 expressway stretching from Subic-Tipo until La Paz, Tarlac, connecting the special economic zones in Subic and Clark, Olongapo City and Tarlac City.

CENTURY’S PROJECTS. Real estate developer Century Properties Group announces the resumption of construction operations after completing the COVID-19 rapid testing of 935 workers and site personnel and other requirements from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. They include the provision of hygienic on-site quarters and facilities for its project sites in Century City, Makati; the Residences at Azure North in San Fernando, Pampanga; and the Residences at Commonwealth in Quezon City. Shown are construction workers of Century Properties Management and Construction Corp. registering for their COVID-19 tests.

Gov’t bolsters stake in UCPB to 97% by converting P12-b notes THE government raised its majority stake in United Coconut Planters Bank from 75 percent to 97 percent with the conversion of the P12 billion in capital notes the bank issued to Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. into special preferred shares, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Friday.

Dominguez, who is also the chairman of the state-run PDIC, said the increase of the state’s majority shareholdings

in UCPB reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the bank.

“The Duterte administration has followed the policy of strengthening the capital bases and rationalizing the structures of all government-owned and – controlled banks, namely Land Bank [of the Philippines], DBP [Development Bank of the Philippines], OFBank and UCPB, with the objective of improving their level of service and value for

their stakeholders, the Filipino people,” Dominguez said.

“This latest move of PDIC of converting the capital notes it held to more permanent special preferred shares in UCPB is totally in line with the above objective,” Dominguez said.

Dominguez said the remaining 3-percent stake was owned by “various private sector individuals and entities.”

Julito G. Rada

Sports

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

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

C1

60 athletes to shoot for Olympic seats

Games of UAAP’s Season 83 will still be broadcast by ABS-CBN, according to an official of incoming host La Salle.

ABS-CBN still broadcast partner of UAAP Season 83 Felipe training for Indonesian online bikefest CYCLIST Marcelo Felipe is working out along the roads of his hometown in Llanera, Nueva Ecija.

Because his routes are limited due to the roadblocks put up by nearby barangays, the 30-yearold Felipe trains only at roads that are still open for his bike.

Felipe said his continuous workouts will allow him to prepare for the tournament to be participated in by his Continental team 7 Eleven–Cliqq–Air21

by Roadbike Philippines.

He won’t able to leave for another country this year, but he and members of his squad will be seeing action in the online edition of the 2020 Tour of Indonesia.

“Virtual race na po ang sasalihan namin. Ito na po ang pinaghahandaan namin,” said Marcelo.

Their team manager Ric Rodriguez said that this will be one of the races they are joining this year, slated to happen this September.

Team 7Eleven was supposed join international races in Korea and Thailand over the last three months. But because of the lockdowns imposed to control the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, all of their events were postponed.

“We have been coordinating with the team since the lockdown began after many of our events were cancelled,” said Felipe, who had three first-place finishes in the 2019 LBC Ronda Pilipinas.

Peter Atencio

By Peter Atencio

T

HE University Athletic Association of the Philippines will still lean on ABS-CBN Corp. as its broadcast partner for Season 83.

Edwin Reyes, board representative of Season 83 host De La Salle University said this Friday after the House of Representatives’ Committee on Legislative Franchises denied the media giant’s application for a franchise.

“We are not leaving them behind, they are still our broadcast partner,” said Reyes, who added the league will wait for the network’s executives on how they will go about the broadcast of the coming season.

The format is still unclear and will

depend on the league’s meeting with the network’s executives.

Livestreaming on the internet or block timing with another TV network are still up for discussion.

For now, there is still no date when Season 83 will begin.

Lack of venues for games are holding up preparations, which is just one of the hurdles confronting the incoming hosts.

Most of the venues that the league usually uses to stage the games are cur-

rently being used as testing centers or quarantine facilities for coronavirus patients.

Board members have limited their talks to the closing ceremony being planned to end Season 82.

Reyes said the league needs advise from the government and the Interagency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases on when they can proceed with the coming season.

The decision to deny the renewal of the network’s franchise took place when 70 solons voted in favor of the “Resolution Denying the Franchise Application of ABS-CBN Corporation to Construct, Install, Establish, Operate, and Maintain Radio and Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines.”

Folayang determined to meet Alvarez again ASK former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang who he wants to face next and it’ll take only seconds for the Filipino to respond.

Though not a man who dwells on the past, Folayang would love to settle the score against one guy he almost beat.

“It’s definitely Eddie Alvarez,” Folayang said. “I want to face him again.”

Folayang crossed paths with “The Underground King” Eddie Alvarez in the semifinals of the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix last year at ONE: DAWN OF HEROES in the Filipino’s own backyard.

Buoyed by the capacity crowd at the Mall Of Asia Arena, the Team Lakay star struck hard in the early stages of the match— vicious leg kick sent Alvarez to the ground.

But that turned out to be the beginning of the end for “Landslide.”

Alvarez used Folayang’s momentum against him, sweeping the 36-year-old and eventually locking on a rear-naked choke to complete the come-frombehind first-round win.

“Back in our match I had a lot of regrets,” Folayang said. “I made a lot of mistakes that I want to get back from the last time we fought each other.

“If given the chance, then I believe my performance (next time) would be

Eduard Folayang

a whole lot better.”

Not one to make excuses, Folayang gave Alvarez the credit he deserves for storming back from adversity. He also admitted that he could’ve been more careful after knocking Alvarez down.

But if they meet again, “Landslide” vows to do everything to even the score against the American powerhouse.

“I definitely got careless in that match. We expected Eddie to be more

of a striker, so I was confident when the match hit the ground,” he said.

“If there would be a rematch, I’d address my issues on the ground and hopefully I’ll be better next time around.”

ONE Championship returns to live action with ONE: NO SURRENDER, an audience-free, closed-door event in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, 31 July. Download the ONE Super App to catch it for free.

FOR now, there are around 60 national team members, who can still make it to the Tokyo Olympics.

From the list are six national sports associations that are serious in pursuing efforts to claim qualification berths to the Tokyo games.

With this in mind, Chef de Mission Mariano “Nonong” Araneta feels that athletes should all go back to training and remain focused on their goals.

Araneta said this as the Philippine Olympic Committee awaits the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases’ decision on the resumption of training activities for Tokyo-bound athletes.

“The NSAs will schedule a meeting with the Philippine Sports Commission on this. The other day, the POC and the PSC centered talks on the national athletes and their training,” said Araneta.

“Mayroon pang ibang magpupunta sa qualifiers. Ang problema hindi pa sila allowed magtraining,” added Araneta.

Efforts by the national sports associations to restart the workouts of national athletes on Friday won the support of Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, who said he would personally support the request of sports officials to allow the resumption of training of Tokyo-bound Filipino athletes and others seeking Olympic slots.

“Wala pa pong aksiyon (There have been no actions taken yet), but I would personally support that because I want gold in the Tokyo Olympics like everyone else,” he said.

Araneta counted eight more NSAs which have national athletes still going through qualification competitions. This includes those in swimming, athletics, judoka, karatedo, skateboarding, rowing, taekwondo and golf.

So far, there are four Filipino athletes who have so far qualified to compete in the Tokyo Olympics.

Among those who can earn the country’s first Olympic gold medal in Tokyo next year are pole vaulter Ernest Obiena, gymnast Carlos Yulo and boxers Eumir Marcial (men’s middleweight) and Irish Magno (women’s flyweight).

On the other hand, para swimmer Ernie Gawilan qualified in the Tokyo Paralympics.

The PSC is currently preparing six facilities at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila City and the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.

The venues—the Fencing Hall, Multi-Purpose Center, Strength and Conditioning Building, Dormitory Training Hall at the Philsports Complex and the Taekwondo and Boxing gyms at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex—can be used for training once they have been disinfected after being used as quarantine and treatment facilities for coronavirus (COVID-19) patients.

Peter Atencio

Slaughter signs up with BeoBasket, eyes G League FORMER Ginebra slotman Greg Slaughter on Friday announced his signing with international basketball agency BeoBasket to take care of his professional career.

“I am very happy to announce that I have signed with @misko4raznatovic, owner of BeoBasket, the biggest international basketball agency in the world,” wrote the 32-year-old Slaughter in his @gregslaughter Instagram account.

“They represent many athletes who I greatly admire that compete in the NBA, EuroLeague, and Asia,” the Ins-

tagram announcement continued.

BeoBasket, headed by Serbian lawyer Misko Raznatovic, also represents 7’3” Boban Marjanovic of the Dallas Mavericks, Dario Saric of the Phoenix Suns, Cedi Osman of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets in the National Basketball Association.

“They represent the most number of players competing in the 2019 World Cup and I look forward to adding to that in 2023,” wrote Slaughter, who was part of Barangay Ginebra San Miguel’s many title runs in the Philip-

pine Basketball Association.

“I am also extremely honored to be the first Filipino player in their roster.

Wherever my journey takes me, I will always proudly represent the Philippines, especially our National Team. I will forever be humbled by the opportunities basketball and its fans have given me,” he said. “Salamat sa pag patuloy na suporta.”

Slaughter, who vowed his readiness to represent the Philippines in any overseas tournament if the opportunity comes, has taken a leave of absence from Ginebra after his contract

expired early this year.

If he will be considered, Slaughter said he wants to play for Gilas Pilipinas when it plays in the International Basketball Federation World Cup, which the country will co-host with Japan and Indonesia in 2023.

Slaughter, who is currently training in the US, may be setting his sights on the NBA G League, where Ateneo phenom Kai Sotto will play.

He was named the 2017 Governors’ Cup Best Player of the Conference and was chosen five times in the PBA AllStar event. Jessica Luna

Greg Slaughter

C2

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

Tech & Gadgets full names, birthdays, and phone numbers, which can be linked to passwords.

To prevent this, Dizon advises having a strong password that has uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid passwords related to birthdays and other important dates.

“Always remember to log out of your account, set your accounts to private, and be mindful of your surroundings when typing your password,” he adds.

Other information can also be weaponized. Travel dates and photos of expensive items like jewelry can alert potential thieves of empty homes filled with valuables. Posting car photos with plate numbers allow anyone to trace personal data.

Be wary of hashtags

Parents are advised to protect their children from predators by not using hashtags that will put their privacy in danger. Hashtags like #cutekids and #bathtime can be used by sexual predators to look for their next victim.

PARENTS, KIDS

encouraged to be responsible digital citizens

W

ITH community quarantine guidelines in place, families are expected to use the internet more as they stay safe at home.

This puts them at greater risk for bullying, threats, and crimes. To help minimize the risk and promote responsible digital citizenship, Globe held the first Kids & Tech: Parenting in the Digital Age, an exclusive webinar that teaches families to become savvy consumers of social media and technology.

The panel included representatives from Globe myBusiness: Georges Dizon, Business Enablement and Training Manager, and Maybe Lynn Tarroja, Customer Development Manager. The webinar was moderated by Kristen Dimayuga, the program lead for education of the Corporate Communications Group of Globe.

Together, the panelists shared the

Dealing with bullying

A study by UNICEF found that cyberbullying affects 70% of the youth around the world. Children may feel embarrassed to open up about it to their parents, so adult figures must be careful in dealing with this type of situation.

“We need to clarify what happened, why it happened, and who is involved,” shares Dizon. “We also need to offer support in a positive way. It’s important for children to talk to a trusted adult, whether it’s a parent, a teacher, or an organization like Bantay Bata.”

Parent Module, a family-oriented approach to digital citizenship. It follows the framework of the Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP), a series of workshops taught to students on how to help cultivate a safer online environment. In Your information is valuable the webinar, guests learned about the Hackers can get into users’ accounts common risks of going online and how by using the information they share onto protect themselves. line. These include private details like

There is forever online

Any content that people post on the internet will be there forever. While platforms allow its users to delete their content, others can download or take screenshots of photos and videos.

“Make sure your account is private and to always think twice before posting anything. Don’t spend too much time on social media,” Dizon says.

Rely on credible news sites

There are websites pretending to be credible news platforms online.

Before clicking on it or sharing, it is a good idea to gauge whether the platform is reliable. Always rely on trusted news sites that deliver wellresearched and factual data.

Know the organizations that can help

It is important to keep the numbers of organizations that can help. Examples include #2919 for Hopeline Philippines and #163 for Bantay Bata.

Both are toll-free numbers for Globe and TM subscribers.

Through Kids & Tech: Parenting in the Digital Age, Globe aims to increase responsible digital citizenship among parents and children. To reach more families, Globe can organize online workshops for schools for free.

Learn more about the Digital Thumbprint Program by visiting http:// www1.globe.com.ph/globebridgecom/ learning/digital-thumbprint.

A view like no other with LG’s LSAA LED Series LG ELECTRONICS recently introduced its most advanced digital signage solution yet, the innovative LG LED Signage (model LSAA), the latest in display technology and design. The LSAA offers even better image quality and easier installation than its popular predecessors which propelled LG into one of the leading digital signage solution providers in the industry.

The LSAA features a block-assembly design that makes constructing large displays a cinch. LG designed its solution around a single LED cabinet hub (600W x 337.5H x 44.9D mm) to provide power and signal to the entire signage without additional cabling between cabinets to save time, hassle and costs while delivering up to 4K UHD resolution and 16:9 aspect ratio. The ability to smoothly send and receive signals wirelessly is due to LG’s non-contact connector technology with power being sent to each display via pin connectors located on the edges of the LED cabinet hub. In line with the elimination of cables, the LSAA series is designed to support redundancy of signal and power, providing users with comfort.

With an optional embedded back-up power supply unit, customers can assure the continuous operation of the screen without power

The LG LSAA series applies wireless transmission technology, eliminating the need for messy cables and wires. It allows installers to connect multiple displays to achieve the desired size. With straightforward installation and expandability, the LSAA can be set up or reconfigured onsite in a fraction of the time it takes other LED displays.

failure, while the dual controllers minimize screen failure with a bi-directional signal input.

What’s more, the LED cabinet allows installers to connect multiple displays to achieve the desired size. With straight-

forward installation and expandability, the LSAA can be set up or reconfigured onsite in a fraction of the time it takes other LED displays. Wall-mounts and frame-type accessories offer a number of installation options to meet the diverse

requirements of different site conditions and customers’ needs. This offers unprecedented flexibility that reaps benefits for your business.

LG LSAA with the same AI-powered Image Processor found in LG’s popular high-end TVs delivers vibrant images via its self-emissive display technology and narrow 1.2mm distance between pixels, with gaps to narrow even further to less than 1mm in the second half of the year.

To ensure better efficiency, the product employs the common cathode method where the cathodes of the LEDs are common and connected to a single pin to prevent unnecessary power consumption, delivering only the required voltage to each sub-pixel. LG’s LSAA LED Signage gives optimized image quality with the help of an AI-powered Image Processor. LG’s Alpha 7 Intelligent Processor applied to the LSAA series recognizes and analyzes the original content, optimizing the clarity and sharpness of the content for itself. With HDR support, images become more vivid with great visual impact. The wider color spectrum and greater contrast ratio allow viewers to fully enjoy lively, eye-catching videos and images that work wonders for your brand.

The HP P22h Monitor can be rotated up to 90 degrees to provide optimal display of various content and fit into tight workstations.

HP 21.5-inch monitor takes multitasking to greater lengths WORKING from home can have its benefits—not having to wear a uniform or rushing to the office, enjoying more than the usual number of coffee breaks or snacks, or having extra time with the family.

Temporarily working from home or setting up a home-office will also mean achieving greater productivity, especially if one has a secondary screen such as the HP P22h G4 FHD Monitor.

Studies reveal that multiple monitors can increase productivity by 42% or more. And the P22h Monitor is one stylish and sleek business display that can surely boost productivity as it serves as a bigger second screen for those using a desktop or laptop with smaller displays.

With an ample 21.5-inch diagonal Full HD IPS screen with a 3-sided micro-edge bezel for unlimited sightlines, the HP Monitor is capable of multi-display setups and convenient navigation of documents and spreadsheets, providing a better work experience—from essential presentation features and comfort adjustability, to advanced connectivity—all at an affordable tag price.

The P22h Monitor has a 1920 x 1080 resolution to deliver clear and crisp images for all content, including documents, charts, graphs, spreadsheets, pictures, and videos. It has 100mm of available adjustable height, plus it swivels and tilts 5/+25 (+/-2) and has 90° pivot rotation which makes for the best view that puts content front and center of the workstation, making for optimum ergonomics.

The monitor has HDMI and DisplayPort™ connectors, allowing quick and versatile connectivity to HP Desktop Mini, HP Chromebox, and select HP Thin Client. Its VGA connector also enables compatibility and connectivity to older devices and other equipment. It also has a display assistant that allows users to manage the display and quickly resize screen partitions so they can work in separate regions of the screen.

So, what are you waiting for?

Get the HP P22h G4 FHD Monitor to boost your multitasking and productivity today. Get it online with a three-year standard limited warranty at Lazada (https://bit.ly/ HPmonitorsLazada)

Setting up perfect home office to maximize comfort, productivity A DAY in the life of a regular employee today has become completely different. Remote work is the new reality for people, which may last for a longer term. According to 451 Research, up to 40% of organizations will shift to a more robust work from home environment permanently.

While many employees have probably set up their workstations at home quickly, they might not have taken the time to look into the right technology and tools to be able to work comfortably and productively.

Especially for employees with newly-installed home office, there will definitely be adjustments and modifications to be made.

If you’re looking for recommendations on the ideal home office setup, these Dell devices may become your favorites.

Your PC is Your New Companion, so Pick the Right One The most ideal PC for a professional should be both versatile and secure to be able to handle various workloads. In a work-from-home set-up, the PC should enable users to work from anywhere in their humble abode. It should offer fast and simple connections, powerful performance and smarter devices ranging from ultra-premi-

um to more budget friendly options.

Dell’s Latitude 9510 is the smallest, lightest, most intelligent 15-inch business PCi. It offers enhanced collaboration features with premium built-in speakerphone and intelligent audio solutions that cancel background noise, up to 34 hours of battery lifeii for anyone who jumps from room to room throughout the day and 5G-ready designiii to boost connectivity options. For those that prefer a smaller laptop, the Latitude 7410 features Dell’s first 4K, low blue light panel on a premium business PCiv to help enhance eye comfort – something that could benefit users that work longer or later hours at home.

Workers who prefer desktops or have minimal space can choose the OptiPlex 7070 Ultra. It is a zero-footprint desktop solution, with the PC module hidden in the stand. Creators, engineers, and data scientists that require exceptional graphics and compute power may find the Precision 5000 and 7000 mobile workstations as their perfect companion.

All of these devices include Dell Optimizerv, a new AI-based optimization technology that learns how each person works

and adapts to their behavior to improve overall application performance, while also advancing Dell’s commitment to sustainability.

Freelancers and entrepreneurs can also find great Dell devices fit for their workloads. The latest XPS 15 and XPS 17 provide bigger screens in smaller footprints.

They are designed to help unleash creativity with powerful performance features and immersive visuals on stunning 4-sided InfinityEdge displays.

For small business owners looking for an affordable, performance-driven laptop, the new Vostro 7500 is equipped with a powerful NVIDIA® graphics card, passes the military-grade durability test (MIL STD 810G)vi and features a spill-resistant keyboard that can power through morning coffee and lunch meetings.

Conference Effectively with an Integrated Adapter Speakerphone The remote workforce is spending more time than ever in virtual meetings, but it’s not always comfortable to wear a headset for prolonged hours.

Dell’s Mobile Adapter Speakerphone (MH3021P), the world’s first multi-port

Dell’s Mobile Adapter Speakerphone

adapter with integrated speakerphonevii, provides convenient conferencing experiences in a sleek, compact and innovative design.

It has intuitive controls that make it easy to navigate call functions. The speakerphone’s omni-directional microphone can pick up voice from all directions, while its echo cancellation and noise reduction features eliminate background noise distractions. It can connect to a display that supports up to 4K resolution with HDR,

transfer large media files in seconds and charge laptop—all at once and while in a call. It is designed to be plug-and-play (no software downloads needed) and is optimized for platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams and many more.

Maximize Productivity and Comfort with the Perfect Monitor According to Forrester Research, 92% of workers believe ergonomically optimized monitors are critically important for improving their productivity and comfort as they shift to remote work more permanently.

As the world’s leader in PC monitors for seven years runningviii, Dell has delivered the best monitors across its portfolio— from its premium UltraSharp line to every day affordable monitors like the P and E series —giving users the most ergonomic and productive workspace at home.

The Dell UltraSharp 27 4K USB-C Monitor (U2720Q) is the best pick for users seeking 4K UHD resolution. VESA DisplayHDR™ 400 and wide color space coverage makes it ideal for workers and designers who value accurate color with striking clarity.

Tech & Gadgets

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

Unlock possibilities with Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi THE new normal has shifted many of our activities online, and this has made mobile Internet ever more crucial for those working from home or on the go, taking online classes, or starting an online business.

As we adapt to the demands of the time, mobile services provider Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) is making it simpler for Filipinos to connect online and unlock possibilities by slashing the price of the Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi from P1,295 to only Php999.

Available at Smart Stores nationwide, Smart Online Store, and partner e-commerce sites like GrabMart and Lazada, the device also comes with FREE Surfmax data card worth P250, which customers can use right away to surf and connect online.

An empowering tool Smart announced this with the launch of a new video that encourages Filipinos to face the new normal with renewed hope and optimism. The video features a young man who confidently—and safely—goes about his day to embrace opportunities powered by the Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi. The video is made even more uplifting with Quest’s hit song “Sige Lang” in the background, featuring reassuring lines, ‘Walang imposible, sige lang, simple.’

(Nothing is impossible. Just simply go on).

Watch the video here: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=RQBpT17HXOY. Mobile and versatile Aside from making mobile internet within easy reach by many Filipinos, the Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi provides users with great freedom and mobility to connect anytime and anywhere.

With it, users don’t have to rely on Free WiFi spots, or get tied down to just one location to attend a virtual office meeting, take up online courses, or promote your business on social media.

The Smart Bro Prepaid LTE Pocket WiFi is also versatile as it connects up to 10 WiFi-ready smartphones, tablets, or laptops for simultaneous online sessions.

As such, customers no longer have to go through the hassle of using their phone as a WiFi hotspot, which normally eats up their phone's data allocation and battery faster.

NASA engineers and technicians examine the descent stage of the Mars 2020 spacecraft during a media tour of the Mars2020 Spacecraft Assembly Facility clean room at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California.

The Mars 2020 rover, which will take off in a few months to the Red Planet, will not only search for possible traces of past life, it will also serve as a "precursor to a human mission to Mars," NASA scientists said. The Martian robot made its first turns of wheel last week in the large sterile room of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, near Los Angeles, where it was born. It is scheduled to leave Earth in July 2020 from Cape Canaveral and land on Mars in February 2021. AFP

3 Mars missions ready for take off

P

ARIS—“We have lift-off, we have lift-off!”

The summer race to land a space probe on Mars is off to a hot start.

Three countries—The Hope Probe (United Arab Emirates), Tianwen-1 (China) and Mars 2020 (United States)— have all taken their positions, hoping to take advantage of the period of time when the Earth and Mars are nearest: a mere 55 million kilometres (34 million miles) apart.

The neighbouring planets only come this close once every 26 months—a narrow "launch window" based on their relative positions in space.

Space agencies from all three nations plan to send rovers to the Red Planet to look for additional signs of past life and potentially pave the way to—someday—step foot on its surface.

The journey will take about six months.

The UAE's Hope Probe—the first interplanetary mission by an Arab country —launches on July 15. China plans to send its inaugural Mars probe, a small remote-con-

4 in 5 women in Southeast Asia aspire to be entrepreneurs PREMIER global nutrition company, Herbalife Nutrition, today released new findings from its second annual Global Entrepreneurship Survey 2020, which revealed that women in Southeast Asia have stronger entrepreneurial aspirations compared to women across the globe. According to the survey findings, four in five women (81%) in Southeast Asia aspire to be entrepreneurs, higher than the global average of 72%, with the desire to become entrepreneurs being most pronounced among the Generation Z and Millennials aged 18 to 39.

Conducted by OnePoll in March and April 2020, the Herbalife Nutrition Global Entrepreneurship Survey 2020 polled 9,000 women, including 2,000 women from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore on their attitudes towards entrepreneurship. Beyond uncovering the entrepreneurial ambitions of women in Southeast Asia, the survey found that practical reasons took precedence as the top motivators for entrepreneurship during this time. When asked about their motivations for starting their own business, the need to support their family (56%), the desire to become their own boss (54%) and the desire for a career change (53%) emerged tops, ahead

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of other reasons such as wanting more flexibility in their job (45%) and following their passion (41%).

“The need to find alternative sources of income to support their families has become the top motivating factor for entrepreneurship among Southeast Asian women. With more women in the region having a desire to start their own business compared to the global average, we see opportunities for countries to actively encourage women entrepreneurship,” said Stephen Conchie, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Herbalife Nutrition.

“Bringing together public and private sectors to provide the opportunities, resources, education and training to support women entrepreneurs will empower them to break out of social and cultural norms and lay the foundation for more inclusive economic growth. Not only can they benefit from having better income opportunities, society will profit from having a new generation of entrepreneurial role models that can pave the way for better opportunities for women in the future,” added Conchie.

Financial concerns surrounding entrepreneurship weigh heavy on women’s minds

trolled rover, between July 20 and July 25.

By far the most ambitious project, the US Mars 2020, has a planned launch date of July 30.

The probe—called Perseverance— is expected to spend one Mars year (or about 687 Earth days) on the planet's surface collecting rock and soil samples that scientists hope will shed light on past life forms that may have inhabited the faraway planet.

The aim of subsequent missions will be to bring those samples back to Earth.

A fourth planned launch, the EU-Russian ExoMars, was postponed until 2022 due to the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Traces of life Several dozen probes—most of them American—have set off for the Red Planet since the 1960s. Many never made it that far, or failed to land.

The drive to explore Mars flagged until the confirmation less than 10 years ago that water once flowed on its surface.

"It's the only planet where we've been able to detect past signs of life, and the more we learn about it more hope there is," Michel Viso, an astrobiologist at CNES, France's space agency, told AFP. "It feels like something exciting is happening, and people want to be a part of it."

India and the European Union are also setting their sights on a Mars landing. In 2024, Japan plans to send a probe to explore the Martian moon Phobos.

As with the moon missions, different countries have invested heavily—in reputation and cash—on Mars exploration, with each looking to find their specific niche, Viso noted.

The holy grail, he added, is getting boots on the ground: "This represents the 'ultimate frontier' of space exploration."

So far, only the US has done detailed feasibility studies, and in a bestcase scenario achieving that goal will take at least 20 years.

A swathe of Mars lander missions over the past five decades have met with varying degrees of success since the Soviet Mars 2 and 3 probes launched in 1971.

NASA's Curiosity lander, which ar-

rived in 2012 and is designed to determine whether the planet's environment was ever able to support microbial life forms, remains operational on the surface—as does the Insight lander, which arrived in 2018.

Martian colonies The UAE is thinking even longer term.

The oil-rich Gulf nation plan to establish a "science city" on Earth that will reproduce Mars' atmospheric conditions, with the goal of establishing a human colony on the Red Planet around 2117.

Supporting human life on Mars presents a number of logistical challenges.

Today's Mars is basically an immense, icy desert. About 3.5 billion years ago, it lost the dense atmospheric pressure that protected it from cosmic radiation.

Scientists are still trying to determine whether the planet was ever inhabited by metabolic life forms.

"Four billion years ago, the conditions on the planet's surface were very close to those which we had on Earth when life first appeared," including liquid water and a dense atmosphere, said Jorge Vago, the spokesperson for the European Space Agency's ExoMars initiative. AFP

SAMSUNG introduces Galaxy A21s, A11 SAMSUNG continues to introduce new innovations in its lineup of Galaxy devices this 2020. Following the recent launches of the Galaxy A51 and A31, the tech brand is now introducing the new Galaxy A21s and A11.

The newest A-series encourages Gen Z to bring out their “awesome” and share it with the world, may it be about their passions, interests, or talents.

The Galaxy A21s features a Quad-Camera setup with 48MP main to capture awesome memories in bright and vibrant details. It also has an 8MP Ultra-Wide Lens with a 123° field of vision that captures wider scenic views, a 2MP Depth Camera that gives a bokeh effect on photos, and a 2MP Macro Camera that captures the details of the subject. The device even has a 13MP front camera for picture perfect selfies.

The new A-series smartphone serves as the perfect companion in creativity as it is equipped with a 5000mAh battery with 15W Fast-Charging Technology, allowing content creators to take photos and videos all day. The device is also powered by an Exynos 850 chip with up to 64GB memory and 6GB of RAM for smooth and uninterrupted performance.

Awesome content is best viewed using the Galaxy A21s’ 6.5” HD+ Infinity-O Display that provides a

fuller viewing experience.

The Galaxy A11, on the other hand, comes with a Triple-Rear Camera setup with a 13MP main that captures bright photos even in low light conditions. It is also equipped with a 5MP Ultra-Wide Camera with a 115° field of vision and a 2MP Depth Lens for an artistic blur on subjects.

The Galaxy device is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 450 processor with up to 32GB of memory as well as 3GB of RAM. Galaxy users can even enjoy going live all-day with its 4000mAh battery with 15W FastCharging support.

The Galaxy A11 makes bingewatching even better with its 6.4” HD+ Infinity-O Display that provides an immersive viewing experience.

The new A-series lets owners share their awesome content with fellow Galaxy users as well through the Samsung Members Community in the Samsung Members app. The app even provides them news and updates on the latest promos that are exclusive to Galaxy users.

Starting July 10, the Galaxy A21s is available for P11,990 while the Galaxy A11 is priced at P7,490. The Galaxy A21s comes in Black and White while the Galaxy A11 comes in Blue and Black. In addition, customers can purchase the Galaxy A21s from July 10 to September 30 for as low as P1,998.33 per month at 0% interest via Credit Card Installment.

Google launches startups accelerator program to help PH businesses

In addition to the mentorship and technical support, the program will also offer training and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for business founders.

THE COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way people live, work, and do their businesses.

Technology has an important part in helping everyone adjust to the new way of life, as well as paving the way for startups and businesses to rethink their strategies to offer innovative services and solve challenges in the new world.

To help local startups adapt to the changes and thrive in these times, Google calls all Filipino entrepreneurs and business innovators to join Google for Startups Accelerator: Southeast Asia. The threemonth online accelerator program will run from August 11 to November 12, 2020, gathering tech startups from all over Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. These are the enterprises looking to develop tech-driven solutions for the challenges the public faces today—especially in healthcare, education,

finance, and logistics. To join, interested applicants may visit this site.

Applications are currently ongoing and will remain open until July 19. Successful applicants will be paired with relevant experts from Google and the industry to discuss the challenges their startups are facing and find possible solutions for their businesses. Participants will receive deep mentorship on both business and technical topics, as well as specialized support from Google’s mentor network and access to Google’s AI/ML, Cloud, Android, and Web experts.

In addition to the mentorship and technical support, the program will also offer training and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for business founders.

“The startups community is important as not only do they provide smart solutions to the challenges we face every day but they help propel the economy forward. We are committed to supporting Filipino startups and one way we’re doing this is through Google’s Startups Accelerator program to help them realize their full potential and seize opportunities ahead,” said Bernadette Nacario, Google Philippines Country Director.

Formerly known as the Google Launchpad Accelerator, the Google for Startups Accelerator program continues the company’s longstanding commitment to empower global startup ecosystems and discover solutions to challenges using Google’s resources in technology, research, and network of people.

Take the next step for your business and innovate your tech solutions. Apply now for the Google Startups Accelerator by visiting this site.

Motoring

RAMON L. TOMELDAN Editor

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SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2020

Mercedes, Red Bull duel for supremacy

New Ford SUV up for August delivery

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ORD Philippines is set to bring the all-new Ford Territory for the first time in the country to give Filipino customers a new SUV offering that will complement today’s modern lifestyles and needs.

Ford Philippines is the first market in the company’s International Market Group composed of nearly 100 markets around the world to offer the all-new Ford Territory, which will reinforce Ford’s presence in the small and miniSUV segments in the country, a company statement said.

Launching in the Philippines in August, the Ford Territory will deliver an appeal to young professionals and small families with its segment-leading features and capabilities offered at a competitive price point.

“The all-new Ford Territory is designed to empower the modern Filipino driver who don’t want to compromise features, space, technology and versatility in their vehicle,” said PK Umashankar, managing director, Ford Philippines.

“With Ford’s heritage and global expertise in designing class-leading SUVs, we are confident that the all-new Ford Territory will resonate with Filipino customers looking for an all-in-one package in their SUV.”

Supra GT Cup revs up e-racing experience

AROUND the globe and even in the Philippines, business owners are trying their best to adapt to the “new normal” lifestyle, because getting back on their feet allows them―and their respective communities―to thrive during this global pandemic. But adapting to the new normal might be challenging, as this means working round-the-clock while taking precautionary measures for the quality goods and services they’ve been accustomed to providing.

This is where a reliable workhorse comes in. Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI), the Philippines’ official distributor of Hyundai personal and commercial vehicles, has a heavyweight contender that has gained a following among business owners for its dependability and efficiency: the Hyundai H-100, complete with “Biga10” benefits for your mobility needs.

Biga10 Benefit #1: The H-100 is social distancing-ready. Before the new normal, the H-100 carried 21 pax in

DO YOU want to experience speeding through the world’s famous racing circuits, driving no less than Toyota’s pure sports car the GR Supra? Have you ever dreamed of representing the Philippines and using your racing skills to bring honor to the country in an international motorsport event?

It’s now possible, and it can all happen online. Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently announced the launch of its first virtual motorsport competition, the GR Supra GT Cup Asia Philippines. You may be the top e-sports racing champion that TMP is looking for to field against Asia’s racing champions.

The journey starts by registering for free at the official website – www.toyota.com. ph/gtcup . There are two major open categories, the Promotional Class for novice, casual virtual racers or enthusiasts and the Sporting Class for more ad-

vanced racers with professional virtual motorsports experience.

The competition is open to Filipino citizens with a valid Philippine passport, aged 18 and above. Players must have access to a PlayStation 4 using their own active PSN account and PS Plus subscription, and the Gran Turismo Sport game.

After registration and submission of requirements, qualified applicants will be notified on official game rules and schedules. Official racers will then join a qualifying leaderboard challenge to identify the Top 24 from each class. The Top 24 will then race in the semi-final and the final race heats, and points will be assigned based on finishing time.

The first round qualifiers will happen on July 23, while the finals will happen a week after. A second and third round will happen in August and September respectively, with point values increasing at each round.

Players will need to qualify for each round. The players from the two classes to accumulate the most points after the third round will be declared the Philippine champions and will participate in the Asian Regional Round in October.

Two special classes are also open: the Celebrity and Media class where the third Philippine champion will come from, and the Junior class for players below 18 years old.

The GR Supra GT Cup Asia - Philippines is a motorsport program under Toyota’s global Gazoo Racing brand. The Philippine leg is being staged by TMP in partnership with Tuason Racing. This activity expands TMP’s local motorsport development program, which includes its premier one-makerace, the Vios Racing Festival set to resume in 2021 once it’s already declared safe to hold mass gatherings and public events.

MERCEDES team chief Toto Wolff may have seen his world champion team claim victory in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix, but he still insists the “gloves are off” when the duel for supremacy with rivals Red Bull resumes on Sunday.

Valtteri Bottas gave Mercedes a pole-to-flag win at the Red Bull Ring last weekend as the 2020 championship finally roared into life.

However, teammate and world champion Lewis Hamilton was fourth after facing two protests from Red Bull on the eve of the race over his qualifying tactics.

Hamilton was relegated from second to fifth on the grid before a late collision with Red Bull’s Alex Albon torpedoed his hopes of a podium, despite finishing second on the track.

“We were lucky to finish the race and reliability is a real concern. We are working it as our highest priority,” admitted Wolff.

But stung by the daily protests from Red Bull, he warned rival team chief Christian Horner and his team: “It’s serious now.

Gloves off. No more nice stuff –we are in a real fight to win.

“So, in a short and intense season like this, with a yet to be determined number of races, every point is going to count.”

The second race of the season takes place at the same bio-secure Spielberg circuit nestled in the foothills of the Styrian Alps.

Not surprisingly, this weekend’s race has been named in honour of the spectacular mountain range.

Having watched from the pitlane as Bottas claimed his third victory for Mercedes on one of his favourite tracks, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wants better luck this weekend.

The Dutchman, forced to retire early from the Austrian Grand Prix with electrical problems, hopes to live up to Horner’s pledge that Red Bull will treat every race “like a cup final” by taking the fight to rivals Mercedes.

“We were a bit down on pace compared to Mercedes in qualifying last time,” said Verstappen.

“So we definitely need to close the gap to fight them in that area, rather than on strategy.

“I was looking good for a podium, which I thought was easily possible because it was basically between Mercedes and myself on raw pace, but then you should also look at how the whole race panned out.

“We could have scored a good amount of points against Lewis, but it is what it is. We can’t change it so now I’m looking forward hopefully to a more positive weekend.”

Horner felt aggrieved by Verstappen’s misfortune and by Albon’s late clash with six-time world champion Hamilton, which cost the Mercedes driver a podium finish, as he was given a five-second penalty, but knocked the Thai driver out of contention. AFP

Heavyweight contender Hyundai H-100 has 10 reasons why it could be your partner its shuttle configuration. But to make way for social distancing that can keep us safe from spreading the virus, the H-100 can now be reconfigured to a 9-seater―complete with individualized seating, plastic dividers and even a contactless payment system for your passengers!

Biga10 Benefit #2: The H-100 has 1,080kg load capacity. Those in the business of delivering goods know just how crucial the extra load capacity can bring them, and with the H-100’s whopping 1,080kg load capacity (that’s 285kg or the total weight of 4 average Filipinos, more than some of its competitors’), they can feel assured knowing they have the capacity to always deliver.

Biga10 Benefit #3: The H-100 has a longer wheelbase for better stability and more cargo space. Standing wide and proud, the H-100 isn’t compromising your cargo space as well as your stability on the road because of its 2,430mm wheelbase.

Biga10 Benefit #4: The H-100 is 4,955mm long. For those who are in the business of moving or lipat-bahay, you’ll always have more than enough to carry appliances and other household items with the H-100’s length of 4,955mm (including its shuttle body!) Partner that with the 2,430mm wheelbase, and you can be assured that no item would be left behind.

Biga10 Benefit #5: The H-100 has the power and torque that makes it a formidable runner. With the H-100’s maximum power of 130ps and maximum torque of 255Nm, you won’t have reasons to dread pick-up or delivery addresses that involve challenging road conditions or uphill climbs.

Biga10 Benefit #6: The H-100’s 6-speed M/T makes long drives fuel ef-

ficient. If you’re thinking of entering the pasabuy business that enables entrepreneurs to buy and deliver goods so their community members can simply stay at home, then you won’t be disappointed with the H-100! Powered with a 6-speed manual transmission, the H-100 allows you to make every drop of fuel count, highway driving and long drives won’t put a strain on your fuel budget.