Manila Standard - 2018 August 19 - Sunday

NAIA CLEARS RUNWAY, 165 FLIGHTS RESUME

By Joel Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz VOL. XXXII • NO. 185 • 4 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

day, officials said, allowing normal operations to resume on Saturday.

Around 165 international and local A CHINESE plane that slid off the runway flights were canceled on Friday and at Manila airport Thursday night has Saturday at the Philippine capital’s main been removed from the muddy spot airport after the plane’s bumpy landing, where it had been stuck for more than a said airport media officer Connie Bungag.

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STORM HAS PASSED. A Xiamen Air Boeing 737-800 series passenger aircraft, operating as MF8667

from Xiamen to Manila, lies (above) at the Naia runway after skidding off while attempting to land in bad weather Thursday night. By Saturday, after 36 hours, the plane was removed from the spot, allowing normal operations and flights for stranded passengers (right). The 157 passengers and crew aboard the Xiamen plane were able to disembark without suffering any injuries. AFP

P25-M DRUG BUST SPOILS PARTY—BOC

By Joel E. Zurbano

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USTOMS agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport have intercepted parcels containing 14,720 tablets of ecstasy, a dangerous party drug, worth P25 million.

Commissioner Isidro Lapeña Jr. said his men assigned at the airport also arrested Joan Reynoso, 42, a resident of Cavite, who claimed ownership of the parcel Friday night at the Central Mail Exchange Center in Pasay City.

In a related development: • A report in“Balitanghali”beamed nationwide Saturday said an estimated P3.4 million worth of shabu was seized by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in its operation Friday night in Parañaque City during a buy-bust operation inside a private subdivision there.

The report said one suspect, identified as Arnel Sabal of Cotabato, was nabbed but his accomplice, identified only as Oscar, was able to escape.

According to PDEA National Capital Region director Joel Plaza, Sabal, who denied PDEA’s allegations, was “a big-time and high-value target.”

Lapeña said the drug pills were concealed inside a desktop computer central processing unit when it arrived at CMEC last Aug. 4, 2018 from France.

He added the team of Customs operatives waited for 13 days for the claimant to appear and get the package.

Reynoso, when interrogated, said she did not know that something was hidden inside the CPU. Reynoso and the prohibited drugs were turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and for the appropriate filing of criminal charges against the suspect.

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CHR STEPS INTO 3 LAWYERS' ARREST FOR 'OBSTRUCTION' THE Commission on Human Rights said Saturday it has launched its own investigation on the arrest of three lawyers—condemned by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon—for alleged obstruction of justice by police officers during a search of a popular bar in Makati.

The three were reported to have refused to identify themselves and respond to police questions while police were conducting the search, NCRPO chief Director Guillermo Eleazar said Saturday.

But Drilon condemned the arrest and the filing of charges against the three, called it “patently unlawful” which he said was “a manifestation of worsening culture of impunity in the Philippine Na-

tional Police [and] patently unlawful and arbitrary.”

The three, now identified from various sources, were Leni Rocel Rocha, Jan Vincent Sambrano and Romulo Bernard Alarkon, were nabbed at the Time in Manila bar on Thursday afternoon for “obstruction of justice” and for “intimidating” police implementing a search warrant, according to the Southern Police District.

The Southern Police District said the three, who claimed to be lawyers of one of the bar’s owners, entered the premises during a subsequent search by the police, “took several pictures and videos of the scene,” and “intimidated the members of the searching team without proper and prior coordination.”

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DUTERTE PROMOTES METRO POLICE CHIEF TO DIRECTOR RANK

By Joel E. Zurbano PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has approved the recommendation to promote acting Metro Manila police director Chief Supt. Guillermo Eleazar to the next rank of Director.

In a letter sent to the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Malacañang informed Secretary Eduardo Año that “per the endorsement of the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission and as recommended by the National Police Commission, and in conjunction with Republic Act No. 6975, as amended, the promotion of Police Chief Supt. Guillermo Tolentino Eleazar to the next higher rank of Police Director is hereby approved.”

The letter, signed by Duterte on Aug. 16, also stated that “By virtue hereof, he may qualify and enter upon the performance of the duties of the office, furnishing this Office and the Civil Service Commission with copies of his oath of office.”

The promotion will pave the way for Eleazar, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987, to assume the leadership at the National Capital Region Police Office in a full time capacity.

The Police Director rank is equivalent to the rank of a two-star General (Major General) in the Armed Forces.

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NOBEL PRIZE LAUREATE DIES

Kofi Annan

GENEVA—Former United Nations Secretary General and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kofi Annan has died Saturday after a short illness at the age of 80, his foundation announced.

“It is with immense sadness that the Annan family and the Kofi Annan Foundation announce that Kofi Annan, former Secretary Turn to A2

ARROYO BIDS TO MAKE HOUSE TRADE-FRIENDLY

By Maricel V. Cruz HOUSE Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has stressed the need to prioritize infrastructure development and the ease of doing business, saying these are crucial factors to investors, as seen in the industrial town in San Simon, Pampanga.

Arroyo made the statement following a dialogue with locators at the Freeport Area of Bataan at Bataan Freeport Zone Friday, even as she pushed for measures which promote rationalization of tax incentives.

“I asked the investors, why did you come here? None of them is getting fiscal incentives. They came here because of the infrastructure,” Arroyo said.

Allaying fears that the proposed tax reform law might scare away investors, Arroyo said infrastructure and the ease of doing business were the most important factors for business ventures.

While incentives may attract investors, they cater only to so-called footloose businesses and that infrastructure and ease of doing business are the factors that attract investors to a particular country, Arroyo said.

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10 UNUSUAL SPORTS

By Alastair Himmer

SURFACE WATER SPORTS. Rain or shine, jet skiing—with a small motorized water craft with a flattish hull and upright center on which a rider sits astride, has been listed as one of 10 unusual events in the 17-day Asian Games in Jakarta which opened Saturday. Sonny Espiritu

ANYONE for sepak takraw? Or perhaps a spot of bridge? We take a look at 10 of the more unusual sports being contested at the Asian Games in Jakarta: Pencak silat Legend has it that the ancient Indonesia martial art originated Turn to A2

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DOUBLE PAY FOR WORKERS ON AUG. 21 WORKERS who would report for work on Aug. 21 will be paid double their salary on that day, after President Rodrigo Duterte declared the said day a special non-working holiday, the Department of Labor and Employment said.

The DoLE said Aug. 21 is a regular holiday as the country observes the Muslim Feast of Sacrifice, Eid’l Adha, which is also a special non-working holiday being the Ninoy Aquino Day. But they will get to enjoy the double holiday pay only if they work on Aug. 21, the Labor department said.

Following the President’s proclamation, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III advised employers to observe the proper payment of wages for workers in a regular holiday falling on a special non-working holiday.

In Labor Advisory No. 12, Bello said the following pay rules will apply in the computation of workers’ wages on Tuesday pursuant to Proclamation Nos. 269 and 556 of July 17, 2017 and Aug. 15, 2018, respectively: If the employee did not work, her or she shall be paid 100 percent of his or he salary for that day plus the cost of living allowance or COLA. However, if the employee worked on the said holiday, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of 200 percent of his or her regular salary for that day for the first eight plus COLA x 200 percent] + [30 percent (Daily rate x 200 percent)].

In addition, if the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work), he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on said day (hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200 percent x 130 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked).

The advisory also said that if the employee worked during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 50 percent of his or her daily rate of 200 percent [(daily rate + COLA) x 200 percent] + [50 percent (daily rate x 200 percent)].

Also, if the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work) during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate on said day (hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200 percent x 150 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked). Vito Barcelo

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Año, who is also the concurrent chairman of the Napolcom, made the recommendation to the Chief Executive to promote Eleazar last July 23.

Napolcom Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Rogelio Casurao said that aside from the recommendation, the Napolcom certified that Eleazar met all the requirements for promotion to Police Director.

Eleazar was barely two months into his post as Regional Director of Police Regional Office 4-A when he was ordered to lead the NCRPO on June 1, replacing Oscar Albayalde, now the director of the Philippine National Police.

He also served as head of the Quezon City Police District prior to his appointment as Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) police chief.

When Eleazar assumed post at the NCRPO, the number of crime incidents in Metro Manila went down. He attributed the significant accomplishment to the continuing war on drugs campaign and other factors.

NCRPO also arrested and jailed 48,886 individuals while 1,590 were neutralized during various police operations.

NOBEL...

RIDING-IN-TANDEM STRIKES AGAIN, SHOOTS TWO CHINESE NAIA...

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In related developments: • Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the Xiamen plane tragedy that caused the temporary closure of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport runway and inconvenienced airline passengers served as an “eye-opener” for airport authorities.

“This incident served as an eyeopener—a reminder for us to take a second look at the processes, procedures, and protocols of concerned agencies, as well as airlines, so that we may all improve in the future,” said Tugade, who apologized for the entire DoTR family.

• The pilot of the Chinese plane has been barred from leaving the country, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said.

The pilot has been asked to appear before the CAAP on Monday, Aug. 20, as part of the agency’s investigation, CAAP Spokesperson Eric Apolonio told dzMM radio in a newscast beamed nationwide.

Aviation authorities will have to

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Airport district collector Carmelita Talusan said for the past months, Port of Naia had been apprehending illegal drug shipments in compliance with the Bureau of Customs commissioner’s directive to secure the borders and the anti-drug campaign of President Rodrigo Duterte.

two cranes needed to lift the aircraft, officials said.

By noon on Saturday, flights had resumed their normal schedule, but some passengers were not impressed by the speed of the recovery operation.

“At last,” tweeted one disgruntled observer. “That’s a record 36 hours.”

Apolonio said investigators had recovered the plane’s black box and flight data recorder and would be summoning the pilots next week to find the cause of the mishap.

The airport will schedule special flights after midnight to make up for some of the flights that were cancelled earlier, Bungag told AFP. The Department of Transportation is already spending P2.74 billion this year to further modernize Clark, according to Campos, a member of the House appropriations committee.

“In fact, Clark already has an Instrument Landing System that makes it possible for the primary runway to handle flights after 6 pm,”Campos said.

The ILS enables pilots to conduct a fully automated or instrument approach to landing if they are unable to establish visual contact with the runway, for example, at night or during poor weather conditions. With AFP

Ecstasy apprehensions include 962 tablets of ecstasy from Netherlands last April and another 1,003 tablets from Germany in July.

Manila International Airport Authority general manager Eddie Monreal ordered his men to be on alert in and outside the airport against illegal drug trafficking to discourage international and local drug syndicates from using the Philippines as a transshipment point or dumping

ground for their illegal substances.

Shabu, marijuana and ecstasy are the top three narcotics distributed in the streets and these prohibited substances are manufactured by Chinese, Taiwanese and Mexican drug syndicates, according to PDEA. The authorities vowed the government’s crackdown on drug dealing in the country would continue with the goal of catching protectors and financiers of the illegal drug trade.

By Vito Barcelo

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WO Chinese nationals were shot and killed by unidentified riding-in-tandem gunmen along Taft Avenue in Manila, while two bystanders were hit by stray bullets, Manila police operatives said on Thursday.

One of the victims, Wu Hai Dong, died on the spot while his companion identified as Yi Yan Shou was declared dead on arrival at the Philippine General Hospital.

Hit by stray builets were Carla Joyce Chan, 24, and Abegael Amomonpon Conde, 19.

They were rushed to the same hospital.

Police investigators said the suspects were onboard a black Yamaha Mio. One was wearing a black jacket and a black helmet, while another had a white and blue jacket with a white helmet on.

According to investigators, the two victims were walking along Taft Avenue near Araullo University when the suspects attacked them.

It is still not known the motive behind the killing as police are still investigating the incident.

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During the forum, concerns wete raised that the proposed Tax Reform for Attracting Better and Highquality Opportunities (TRABAHO) bill may turn off investors as it takes some of the incentives given to existing enterprises especially those operating in free ports and economic zones.

Contained in House Bill 8083, the TRABAHO bill is the second package of the Duterte administration’s tax reform package.

Arroyo mentioned that during the FAB dialogue that locators were pleased to know that they were not losing their export-related incentives as the government recognized that some locators are footloose, thus need to keep these incentives.

However, for most business enterprises, there is a need to implement more efficient and reasonable policies to enable the government to raise more funds for better services and infrastructure to enable people to grow and businesses to flourish in the country.

In the first place, she pointed out, most businesses do not come to the country for the incentives but for the infrastructure and ease of doing

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General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, passed away peacefully on Saturday 18th August after a short illness,” the foundation said in a statement.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres voiced deep sorrow Saturday at the news his predecessor Kofi Annan had passed away, calling him “a guiding force for good.”

“Kofi Annan was a guiding force for good,” Guterres said in a statement shortly after news broke of Annan’s passing in Switzerland at the age of 80.

“In many ways, Kofi Annan was the United Nations. He rose through the ranks to lead the organization into the new millennium with matchless dignity and determination,” he added. AFP

“determine if the incident was force majeure or was due to pilot error,” Apolonio said.

• An opposition lawmaker said the widespread flight disruptions at Naia following the Thursday runway mishap had shown the importance of developing Clark International Airport in Pampanga as an alternate gateway.

“We are all for the continuous upgrading and expansion of Clark so that it can easily accommodate a greater number of international as well as domestic flights,” Makati City Rep. Luis Campos Jr. said in a statement.

“We really have to build up Clark to decongest the NAIA, which is bursting at the seams in terms of aircraft and passenger traffic,” Campos, a deputy minority leader, said.

The Xiamen Airlines aircraft landed on its second attempt before skidding onto the grass, ripping off its left engine and blocking the runway late Thursday evening.

The 157 passengers and eight crew aboard were able to disembark without suffering any major injuries.

Moving the plane was complicated by heavy rains that softened the ground, making it difficult to install the

after a woman watched a tiger do battle with a giant hawk, and copied their techniques to fight off a pestering group of drunken men.

The term pencak silat describes hundreds of indigenous combat styles in Southeast Asia, with fighters wielding a terrifying array of weapons such as knives, sickles and machetes. Not for the faint-hearted.

Sambo A Russian-Soviet form of fighting developed by the Red Army a few years after the Bolshevik revolution in 1917 to sharpen hand-to-hand combat skills.

The sport’s name is an acronym of the Russian for “unarmed self-defense” and points are awarded for throws and submissions.

business just like what is happening in San Simon in Pampanga.

She pointed out that investors in San Simon industrial park did not place their businesses for the fiscal incentives but because of the good infrastructure and the support of the local government.

“The government realizes that there are businesses that need fiscal incentives and there are industries that invest not really because of incentives but because of infrastructure and the ease of doing business,” Arroyo said.

About 15 of the biggest FAB locators along with Bataan Gov. Albert Raymond Garcia, Mariveles Mayor Ace Jello Concepcion and Authority of the Freeport of Bataan Chairman and Administrator Engeneer Emmanuel Pineda attended the meeting with Arroyo and her group: Reps.

Dakila Carlo Cua of Quirino and Jose Enrique Garcia III of Bataan.

Cua, who chaired the House ways and committee when TRABAHO bill was approved at the committee level, said no less than Arroyo showed that Congress was listening to the locators.

“We are trying to relay the message also, together with the DoF, so

Sepak takraw Wildly popular in southeast Asia, this gravity-defying form of “foot volleyball” has become an Asian Games smash-hit since it was first introduced in 1990 and is largely dominated by Thailand.

An explosive sport in which players acrobatically contort their bodies to launch a rattan ball over a net using their feet, head or chest with the sort of skill that would make Lionel Messi proud.

Bridge Yes, the card game. For many, impenetrably complicated and lacking the sex appeal of poker. Bridge, which conjures images of cucumber sandwiches and rainy afternoons in village halls, is making its Games debut.

Billionaire tobacco tycoon Michael Bambang Hartono, 78, will be Indonesia’s richest competitor—but still not the oldest. That honor goes to Malaysia’s 81-year-old player Lee Hung Fong.

that we can strike a good balance in crafting a policy that would bring more jobs to our people,” said Cua. Cua said although the bill had reached the plenary, there were still opportunities for the measure’s improvement, the most obvious of which is the period of amendments.

There is also the Senate where the whole process for discussion and improvement of the bill is still open.

Then the third opportunity is the bicameral committee.

During the dialogue, among the issues discussed was “the granting of tax incentives that are performancebased, transparent and time-bound.”

Cua said the government targeted industries which needed incentives and had been creating jobs.

Cua said the FAB locators themselves acknowledged that the top reason for investing in the country was its talented workforce.

“The best incentive in investing in the country is not in the bill, but it’s the people, according to the locators,” he said.

Meanwhile, Garcia said the businessmen were happy that Arroyo and her group went there to discuss HB 8083 with them.

“We took this opportunity to

clarify some of the provisions of the bill. We also took this opportunity to let them know what aspects of their business will be affected,” said Garcia.

Garcia said some of the issues discussed with the locators were the rate and length of incentives, the VAT and how it would be refunded, among others.

He said they clarified to the locators the meaning of time-bound.

Garcia said the proposed amendments to the bill could be done in the plenary and the committee.

He said he would propose for the House to keep the autonomy of the FAB because of its good performance.

“There should be a performancebased implementation of the bill.

Meaning, if the FAB is bringing in investments, bringing in jobs, getting locators, and paying well the taxes, then let it still be autonomous as it is now. It has its own charter. I think that is the reason why the FAB is successful,” said Garcia.

For his part, Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua, also present during the forum, said the Department of Finance would keep an open mind to the proposals raised.

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Eleazar said if only the three lawyers properly coordinated and identified themselves, the searching party would have been glad to assist them during the search at the Time in Manila.

“The Commission, is deeply alarmed by the arrest of the three lawyers who were only fulfilling their obligation as counsels of their client which is a constitutional right of every Filipino to be represented by a counsel of his/her own choice,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said in a separate statement.

“It shows an utter disrespect not only of the law profession but also of constitutionally enshrined rights. It emboldens other law enforcement agencies and puts at risk ordinary Filipino citizens.”

“The Commission for its part, shall

continue to pursue its investigation on the matter,” De Guia said.

Police raided the establishment last Saturday, arrested 31 employees for allegedly supplying and distributing illegal drugs, and recovered a few pieces of alleged ecstasy tablets, several plastic sachets of alleged cocaine and shabu, and drug paraphernalia.

More than 100 people were arrested.

In a statement, Drilon said: “As a lawyer and former justice secretary, I condemn in the strongest terms the intimidation of the legal profession. The arrest of the three lawyers is not only an assault against the country’s legal profession, but also a blatant display of disrespect against our entire justice system.

“If they can arrest, intimidate and threaten lawyers who are merely performing their sacred oath of protecting the rights of their clients, then we can just imagine what they do to ordinary citizens and the likes of Kian delos Santos.

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BIFF RESORTS TO IEDS IN FIGHTING GOV’T FORCES

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AMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao—Running out of firearms and ammunition, the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao has resorted to roadside bombings and planting of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in fighting government forces.

Brigadier Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the Army’s 601st Infantry Brigade based in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao, said that the BIFF’s “heavy losses” has forced the terror group to resort to bombing activities.

Carreon noted the heavy presence of BIFF in the so-called “SPMS box,” referring to the

Maguindanao’s adjoining towns of Shariff Aguak, Pagatin (Datu Saudi Ampatuan), Mamasapano and Sharif Saydona, where intensified military operations are currently focused.

At least 50 BIFF have been killed in air, ground and marshland assaults by Task Force Central, the military-led unit out to neutralize the BIFF over the past two months within the SPMS box, the military said.

“At least three BIFF factions are operating within the SPMS box,” Capt. Arvin John Encinas, Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesman, referring to the terror groups of Abu Toraife, Imam Bongos, and Kagui Karialan.

Carreon said the IED recovered by police and Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion last Aug. 8 from slain suspected bombers in M’lang, North Cotabato, were assembled in the SPMS box.

“We will do our best to contain the BIFF in the SPMS box so they cannot carry out bombings in other parts of Maguindanao and North Cotabato,” Carreon said, adding that public support is

necessary for their ongoing mission to neutralize the terror group.

On Saturday, the Army’s 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion recovered four high-powered firearms, 14 improvised bombs and bomb components from a safe house abandoned by the rebels following a brief firefight with infantrymen.

A day earlier, four IEDs were detonated by Army bomb experts in Shariff Aguak.

The IEDs were intended for military convoy regularly passing the Cotabato-General Santos highway. Carreon said defeating BIFF will entail the continued support of the local residents who provide valuable information.

He cited the incident in Barangay Malangog, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao, where residents alerted the military about the presence of the BIFF–Bongos faction in Barangay Malangog.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, 6th ID commander, lauded the civilians for the “well-timed sharing of information to police and military authorities.”

PNA

CONFISCATED. Photo shows P25 million worth of party drug ecstasy being confiscated by the Bureau of Customs operatives at the Central Mail Exchange Center in Pasay City.

Andrew Rabulan

PH 1ST MORO-OWNED OIL FIRM TO EXPAND OPERATIONS

By Vito Barcelo THE country’s first Moro-owned oil and fuel company will expand its operations in Mindanao after a banking company granted a threeyear loan to Bangsamoro Oil and Fuels Corp. (Moro Oil).

Moro oil founder and President Amor Pendalilay said that Security Bank finally granted them a loan for expansion projects in the Southern province and even plans to put up business in Manila.

Moro Oil is a four-year organization based in Cotabato City, founded by Pendaliday, president and CEO. Pendaliday, a former employee of the Bureau of Public Information

of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said he and his partners established Moro Oil in 2016 to bring oil products closer to Mindanao residents.

To date, he said, the company had established four filling stations, such as in Matanog, Maguindanao; General Santos City, South Cotabato; Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao; and Cotabato City.

Pendaliday said they are also operating filling stations on behalf of Sea Oil in Midsayap, North Cotabato; Tacurong, North Cotabato; Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

“We hope to expand our business like any company does in the country and across the world.

We have applied for a loan with some big banks with branches in Mindanao, but the odds in being accepted have looked dim. I don’t know if there are bias and prejudice against Moro businessmen, but you can feel it,” he noted.

“We continue to look for a bank, and we are glad we found one, Security Bank Corp., which broke the barriers of the exclusion of Muslim businessmen. Moro Oil is truly thankful and grateful to the management of Security Bank,” said Pendaliday.

“If you only know, even in Amanah Bank we were not able to borrow for the expansion of our business,” the Moro Oil president said.

Pendaliday assured bank officials that they will use the loan for their expansion as he looked forward for a stronger partnership ahead.

Two organizations helped Moro Oil connect with Security Bank, such as the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Philippines Inc. led by Eric Yam, cofounder and vice president, and the Bangsamoro Federal Business Council, Inc. under Datu Nasraili B. Conding, president.

Pendaliday said Moro Oil represents young Moro leaders’ aspiration to help promote economic and business engagements in Mindanao and help generate jobs, among others.

SUCCESSFUL PEACE PROCESS LEADS TO LOWER CRIME RATE IN ZAMBO PENINSULA ZAMBOANGA CITY—A top police official here attributed the reduction in the crime rate in the Zamboanga Peninsula to the success of the peace process in Mindanao.

“The prevailing good peace and order situation in Zamboanga Peninsula is a result of the positive effects of the peace process,” Zamboanga Peninsula Police regional director Chief Superintendent Billy Beltran said during the visit of the Joint Normalization Committee of the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Thursday here.

Beltran said threats from Moro revolutionary groups have been drastically reduced because of the developments in the Bangsamoro peace process, particularly with the recent signing of the Bangsamoro Organic Law by President Rodrigo Duterte.

He noted that since the peace process made substantial progress, the cities and provinces in the Zamboanga Peninsula have not recorded any incident of bombings and other serious terror attacks.

“There’s a downtrend crime rate in the region,” Beltran said.

Zamboanga Peninsula Region covers the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay, along with the chartered cities of Zamboanga City and Isabela City in the island province of Basilan.

“Mindanao has so much potential and promise, and this all depends on the success of the peace process,” Beltran said.

Sustaining the gains of peace is one of the primary reasons of the JNC’s visit in the Police Regional Headquarters here, said JNC co-chairman Dickson Hermoso, Assistant Secretary for Peace and Security Affairs of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and member of the GPH-MILF Implementing Panel.

“We no longer consider the MILF as our counterparts but as our partners. With the passage of the BOL there’s a strong hope ahead of us,”Hermoso said of the relationship between the government and the MILF.

NIYOGYUGAN FESTIVAL 2018. Higantes

wearing coconut materials armed with jungle bolos were on display at an exhibit to show the products of the Municipality of Catanauan, Quezon for 12 days, from Aug. 9-20 as part of the celebration of the ’Niyogyugan Festival 2018.’ Organizers expect 60,000 visitors from other provinces during the celebrations of the 140th Birth Anniversary of the late President Manuel L. Quezon at the Perez Park in Lucena City on Saturday. PNA

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

2 SOLONS QUESTION DEPED’S POLICY

By Maricel V. Cruz

TWO lawmakers on Saturday sought a congressional inquiry into the Department of Education’s Results-Based Performance Management System, which they said gives excessive paperwork to the already overworked teachers due to the lack of facilities and personnel in the department.

In filing House Resolution 2060, ACT Teachers Reps. Antonio Tinio and France Castro asked the appropriate committees at the House to look into DepEd Order Number 2, series of 2015, which provides for the guidelines and implementation of the Results-Based Performance Management System for teaching and nonteaching personnel.

In the resolution, the lawmakers urged the House Leadership “to hear the clamor of our teachers and nonteaching personnel to immediately conduct and inquiry regarding the Results-Based Performance Management System and their call for decent pay and humane working conditions.”

Tinio said the order requires teachers to submit Individual Commitment and Review Form for performance evaluation.

“The alleged purpose of the excessive paperwork is to measure the competencies of public school teachers so as to compensate them accordingly and to develop their quality of work,” he said.

“But these systems for performance-related pay, such as the RPMS have only resulted in cutbacks on the benefits of personnel and continue to reject the demand for decent salaries,” he added.

Castro said that on top of the regular tasks of checking of students’ quizzes, keeping master lists, creating lesson plans and instructional materials, teachers are “heavily burdened” by the reports they are required to submit under the RPMS, an assessment tool designed to squeeze state workers to perform beyond their capacities.

“It forces them to fulfill the requirements beyond their working hours, eating away the time that should be reserved for them to take care of themselves and their families. This system adversely affects the quality of their teaching,” Castro said.

BILL EXPANDING WOMEN’S RIGHTS AT WORKPLACE OK’D

By Maricel V. Cruz THE leadership of the House of Representatives has backed a bill which seeks to strengthen the protection of women employees in the workplace.

Approved on second reading, House Bill 6769 seeks to expand the prohibition of discriminatory acts against women on account of sex, amending for the purpose Presidential Decree 442, otherwise known as “The Labor Code of the Philippines.”

The bill was expected to be approved on third and final reading when Congress resumes session on Aug. 28.

In filing the bill, DIWA party-list Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar said discrimination on the basis of sex persists even in this present day and age.

“Discrimination takes many forms.

But it is, perhaps, most pernicious and most debilitating in the workplace, where rigid company hierarchies and a lack of transparency can ensure that abuses go on unchecked,” said Aglipay-Villar, who was recently appointed as Justice Undersecretary, said.

“The role of legislation in this case is to tear away the protective veil of sexual discrimination, by making its violations visible by virtue of making the text of the law explicit with regard to which actions constitute discrimination, as well as making sure that the gravity of the punishment suits the gravity of the offense,” she added.

Under the bill, it shall be an act of discrimination against women for any employer to favor a male employee over a female employee with respect to promotion, assignment, training opportunities, study and scholarship grants solely on account of their sex.

Likewise, the measure states that “favoring a male employee over a female employee with respect to dismissal of personnel or the application of any retrenchment policy of the employer solely on account of their sex” is an act of discrimination.

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018

Reira U Mallari, Editor sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Sports

PH AZKALS: THE NEXT BIG CLUB IN GLOBAL FOOTBALL

T

HE growing interest of Filipinos in football as a sport rages on and is steadily rising.

A few years ago, Philippine Azkals successfully instilled football awareness and captured the attention, hearts and minds of basketball-loving Pinoys.

Since then, the success of Azkals propelled football as the fastest growing sport in the country giving birth to football clinics and camps for the youth and community.

Similarly, Filipinos also recently caught the “World Cup fever” with enthusiasts staying up in the wee hours of the morning or heading to the nearest sports bar to root for their favorite teams.

Now, Filipinos can look forward to more exciting football matches and actively participate with national team Azkals as a participant and with the Philippines hosting games for the 2018 ASEAN Football FederationSuzuki Cup (AFF-Suzuki Cup) to be held at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod from November to December.

The Philippine Azkals will be competing against Singapore and Thailand at the AFF-Suzuki Cup which will be held at Panaad Park in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City. The park houses an 8,000-seating capacity stadium that has previously hosted the 2005 Southeast Asian Games, the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup qualification, several Azkals friendlies, as well as several AFC club matches.

Suzuki Cup will kick off on Nov. 13 with Philippine Azkals playing against Singapore, then on the 17th against Brunei or Timor-Leste followed by a game versus Thailand on Nov. 21. The Azkals will close out the group stage against Indonesia in an away game in Jakarta on Nov. 25. The semis will then run from Dec. 1 to 6, with the two-leg finals scheduled to be held on the 11th and 15th.

Melchor “Jun” Miras Jr., Advertising Manager of the Azkals team, expressed his excitement for this development and the sport’s impressive growth in the Philippines “Never has there been a better time than now for the Philippines to start hosting international games and competitions. With the talented Azkal team bringing their A-game, audiences are assured of an amazing tournament,” Miras said.

The businessman sees the AFF-Suzuki Cup as an opportunity to further promote football in the country and to move closer to the goal of the Philippines to have a stronger presence at the global stage.

Now, with a team that is gaining even greater recognition on the international scene, we should all unite and encourage the business community to support our players. Supporting the Azkals will be instrumental in bringing us all together,” Miras declared.

Philippine Azkals’ recent success includes qualifying at the Asian Cup with a FIFA ranking of 111 as its highest.

Juvic Pagunsan whoops it up after nipping Jobim Carlos on the second playoff hole.

PAGUNSAN EDGES CARLOS ON 2ND EXTRA HOLE, BAGS ICTSI CROWN

Melchor ‘Jun’ Miras Jr., Advertising Manager of the Azkals team

HIDILYN CHASES ASIAD GOLD IN INDONESIA

By Reuel Vidal

Hidilyn Diaz relaxes at the Primal Ape gym, along Chino Roces Avenue. She will represent the country in the 2018 Asian Games.

“Hindi ko alam kung celebrity ako. Pero dahil sa pagkapanalo ko nagbago dahil nagkaroon HIDILYN Diaz, 2016 Rio Olympic silver medal- ng boses ang isang atleta. Nagbago in the sense ist in weightlifting, flew to Indonesia yesterday na binigyan din ako ng material things. Siguro Saturday to represent the country in the 2018 merong privileges. Konting privilege pero as an athlete ganoon pa rin,” said Hidilyn.

Asian Games.

Her Olympic success has opened doors which Seen by many as the country’s best hope for a first ever Olympic gold Hidilyn has prepared has allowed her to do more not only for herself hard and is ready for this Asiad. She was a bronze but more importantly for her fellow athletes.

“As an athlete ang dami kong gusto gawin. medalist in the 2007 SEA Games in Thailand and achieved 10th place at the 2006 Asian Games. She Gusto kong i-voice out kung ano ang mga hopes to do better in this regional competition. pangangailangan naming mga athletes. Then “Sa Asian Games I don’t really want to expect syempre for myself ang dami kong gusto gawin. anything. Pero syempre we are hoping for po- As an athlete nakikita ko hindi lang pala manalo dium finish. Lahat naman kami na athlete gusto ang goal. After manalo sa Olympics meron ka na manalo. And gagawin ko ang part ko as an pa rin palang responsibilities. Naging public figathlete and as a representative ng Pilipinas. ure ka na. Iyong responsibilidad mo ay maging magandang ehemplo para sa mga kabataan,” I will do my best,” said Hidilyn.

She is not looking past the Asian Games. said Hidilyn.

Following her Olympic success she has held But being successful in the 2020 Tokyo seminars, tournaments and outreach programs Olympics is never far from her mind.

“Meron pa qualifying for Tokyo 2020 for youngsters who hope to follow in her footOlympics on November 1. Next competi- steps. She is happy to serve as role model for tion sa November. Nagbago na kasi ang Filipina girls who have big dreams whether it is weight category. So 55 kg na. So mas in sports or in other fields.

“Marami pang hihigit kay Hidilyn Diaz. Sabi madali sa akin ito. Ngayon nagda drop ako ng weight para makapa- ko nga sa kanila. Magiging better pa sila,” said glaro dahil 53 kg ang nilalaro ko sa Hidilyn.

She flew to Indonesia yesterday, Saturday mornAsian Games,” said Hidilyn.

She says she’s grateful that has come her way ing to participate in the 2018 Asian Games. She after she won the Olympic medal. But she says it hopes to do the country proud when she competes in weightlifting on Tuesday, August 21. has not changed her in anyway.

STAGLETS BEAT RED CUBS FOR FIRST TIME IN 11 YEARS

By Peter Atencio THE San Sebastian Staglets made heads turn last Thursday when they posted a 52-51 upset over the San Beda Red Cubs who suffered a loss to the Staglets for the first time in 11 years.

The Staglets seemed headed for a lopsided win but squandered a 12-point edge they earned in the last 5:30.

The Red Cubs came within a point after a charity from Joshua Lazaro with 1:16 left.

Later, Lazaro drove in to attempt a layup at the buzzer but SSC’s Joshua Perez tapped the ball away

from his hands. In the scramble for the loose ball, time ran out on the Red Cubs.

The victory put the Staglets within range of a Final Four seat in the 94th National Collegiate Athletic Association junior basketball tournament at the FilOil-Flying V Sports Center in San Juan.

Not since the time of Ryan Buenafe in 2007 had the Staglets tasted a win over the Red Cubs.

In this game, Milo Janao hit 13 points for the Staglets, who finished the first round with a 4-5 slate.

The Red Cubs, with Zach Estacio making 13, have a 3-3 card.

“Ngayon lang kami ulit nanalo sa San Beda since nagsimula akong mag-coach. Buti, nagstep-up ang mga bata,” said Staglets coach Melo Banua.

The 17-year-old Perez replaced a fouled out Miguel Bonalos in the closing minutes of the game.

“Pinalitan ko si Bonalos nung nag-foul out siya.

Sabi ni coach, maging aggressive kami sa defense,” said Perez.

At the end of their first round games, two members of the Staglets emerged as dominant players of the league.

Milo Janao averages 19.8 points per game.

There’s Kean Baclaan with 15.7 points per game.

BACOLOD—Dragged into a playoff by the young but talented Jobim Carlos, Juvic Pagunsan showed poise and class that have won him numerous titles and accolades here and abroad.

Outdriven by Carlos on the second extra hole on the par-4 No. 1, Pagunsan didn’t mind and struck a solid wedge shot from 60 yards to within five feet on the second extra hole and made the putt. He then watched Carlos muff his own birdie bid from nine feet to clinch the victory in the ICTSI Negros Occidental Classic at the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club course here yesterday.

“That was my plan and because I made a great approach from 60 yards, it put more pressure on Jobim,” said the multi-titled Pagunsan, who yielded some 10 yards to his 25-yearold rival off the mound.

“It was an inspiring win,” said Pagunsan, who was actually coming off an ACL injury that has hampered his campaign on the lucrative Japan PGA Tour, his base the last few years. He closed out with a 67 for a nine-under 271 total, which Carlos matched with a 68 on a birdie-parbirdie windup.

The victory, worth P650,000, also proved memorable as the former Asian Tour No. 1 marked his return to the ICTSI-sponsored Philippine Golf Tour on a winning note after a 20-month absence and he did it on the very course he calls home and where he crowned himself the national amateur champion in 2006.

He appeared headed to wrap it up in regulation after shaking off Korean Kim Joo Hyung early and then going 2-up over Carlos with a clutch birdie on No. 14 coupled with Carlos’ bogey on the next.

But the recent Apo leg winner refused to crack under tremendous pressure and came through with that fiery windup that didn’t only stun Pagunsan but also impressed the big gallery expecting a romp by their hometown hero.

Playoff.

But after both parred the par-5 18th, Pagunsan used his experience and opted for a rather conservative play off the No. 1 tee, hacking out a superb approach shot then banging in the pressure-packed, title-clinching birdie putt.

Carlos said it was a best decision to outhit Pagunsan, only he didn’t get the result he had wanted off his approach shot that landed nine feet off the cup.

“I went on an aggressive stance because that’s how Juvic plays. I have to match his. But I hit a rather bad stroke on the green,” said Carlos, who pocketed P430,000 and kept his impressive run after scoring a breakthrough at PGT Asia Riviera and at PGT Apo last month.

Staglet Joshua Perez (14) defends the post against San Beda cager Joshua Lazaro who tries to pivot into the paint.

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Opinion

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

FROM WHERE I STAND ERIC JURADO

THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF TARIFFS IN THE mid-1800s, the French government imposed tariffs on numerous imported foreign goods, on everything from sewing needles to locomotives, to protect French industries from more efficient foreign rivals that could produce and sell goods to French consumers at a lower cost than domestic producers.

Around that time, French economist Frederic Bastiat published a famous satirical proposal to the French government titled “The Candlemakers’ Petition” that was intended to help members of the French Parliament understand that protectionism and mercantilist trade policies would make France weaker economically.

Sound familiar? Does it sound like Duterte’s Cabinet members and politicians who are against the proposal to reduce to zero the tariff on some agriculture products because of its possible adverse effect on local producers and imported goods flooding the market? When it comes to opposition to free trade and support for protectionism, not much has changed in the last 173 years.

Below is a shortened and edited version of Bastiat’s classic economic essay: A Petition of the Manufacturers of Candles, Waxlights, Lamps, Candlelights, Street Lamps, Snuffers, Extinguishers, and the Producers of Oil, Tallow, Resin, Alcohol, and, Generally, of Everything Connected with Lighting To the Members of the Chamber of Deputies. Gentlemen: Your chief care is the interest of the producer. You desire to protect him from foreign competition and reserve the domestic market for domestic producers.

We are suffering from the intolerable competition of a foreign rival, who has an advantage so far superior to ours for the production of light that he floods our domestic market with it at a fabulously reduced price. The moment he provides his product, our consumers abandon us and rush to our rival; and an important domestic industry, having countless ramifications, is rendered completely stagnant. This rival, who is none other than the Sun, wages an economic war mercilessly against us.

What we pray for is that you to pass a law ordering the shutting of all windows, skylights, dormerwindows, outside and inside shutters, curtains, blinds, bull’s-eyes; in a word, of all openings, holes, chinks, clefts, and fissures, by or through which the light of the Sun enters houses, to the disadvantage of the manufacturers that have accommodated our country—a country that, in gratitude, ought not to abandon us now to foreign competition.

If you close access to natural light, and create a demand for artificial light, which of our French manufacturers will not benefit by

BETWEEN FRIENDS

P

RESIDENT Duterte is at last saying the words we need to hear from him regarding the conflict with China over parts of the South China Sea. At his daughter’s party event in Davao City Friday, the President said: “You cannot create islands there and claim the sea. That is not an island, artificial islands are not true, are prohibited in the middle sea. That’s the rule there.”

These were Mr. Duterte’s words in reaction to China’s claim that the disputed Spratly Islands remain part of its territory.

While it says it respects other countries’ freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, China “has a right to take necessary steps to respond to foreign aircraft and ships that deliberately get close to or make incursions into the air and waters near China’s relevant islands, and provocative actions that threaten the security of Chinese personnel stationed there,” its foreign ministry said in a statement sent to Reuters.

This statement was, in turn, a reaction to President Duterte’s words earlier this week that China should temper its frequent warnings to planes and ships crossing the South China Sea. China had been sending radio warnings to US and Philippine planes, prompting Mr. Duterte to say: “You cannot create an island and you say that the air above the artificial island is

your own. That is wrong. The right to innocent passage is guaranteed,” Duterte said.

We will ignore the remarks of Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano who tried to spin the exchange as a sign of a “closer relationship” between China and the Philippines.

We will, however, emphasize the manner real friends in good faith behave around each other. Friends respect boundaries and not bully each other. They do not capitalize on their existing advantages or exploit the weaknesses of another just to get their way.

Friends abide by established norms and do not disregard the opinion of arbitrators in the event of a dispute, just because these decisions are not favorable to them.

Mr. Duterte has been criticized for his apparent lack of interest in asserting our victory in the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which said China’s nine-dash line claim had no basis in law. He has declared his love for the Chinese leader and said the loans, aid and investment they give us are all too important. These recent statements, however, are more along our expectations of a leader who remains cordial with all our neighbors, who enters into partnerships for mutual benefit, but who knows where to draw the line when the country’s own interests are trampled on.

There is an adage that respect is earned and not demanded, but it’s an adage that has an exception. We should be clear and unequivocal about the way we expect to be treated—especially by those who purport to be our friends.

Turn to B4

HAIRDRESSER, MANICURIST REMEMBER DOWN-TO-EARTH ARETHA

By Jennie Matthew SOUTHFIELD—For years, Jacqueline Robinson was a hairdresser to Aretha Franklin, invited to lavish Christmas parties, whisked off to meet Oprah Winfrey or joining the likes of Stevie

Wonder at dinner.

The hairstylist, who trained in Europe and runs an upmarket salon near Detroit, was heartbroken when the woman she called an “inspiration” died on Thursday, after a long battle with cancer.

“I had a headache. I had a stomach ache. I cried all day,” Robinson told AFP, finding comfort by listening to radio stations that honored the “Queen of Soul” by playing Aretha songs until midnight.

It was the late 1990s when the music

icon telephoned for the first time, asking Jacqueline to style her hair. When her limousine pulled out front, people from neighboring businesses stopped to stare.

But the 18-times Grammy winner, hailed the greatest singer of all time

by Rolling Stone magazine, was never one for airs and graces, taking her seat in the salon alongside any other customer.

“She would lay back in the shampoo bowl just like everybody else,” Turn to B4

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.thestandard. com.ph; e-mail: contact@thestandard.com.ph

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

FOR HAJJ, SAUDI TESTS ‘NAP PODS’ INSPIRED BY JAPAN MECCA, Saudi Arabia—Mansour alAmer swipes a card to reveal a narrow sleep pod, reminiscent of Japan’s famed capsule hotels. But this pod is in Saudi Arabia, where the Muslim hajj pilgrimage begins Sunday.

The kingdom has plans to introduce capsule rooms in the western city of Mina in the coming days, as an estimated two million Muslim faithful gather for the six-day hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam.

The free nap pods are part of new measures Saudi Arabia is rolling out this year in a bid to modernize the centuries-old practice of hajj.

The government has also introduced apps for on-the-spot translation and emergency medical care.

Amer is the head of a Saudi charity, the Haji and Mutamer Gift Charitable Association, which is offering between 18 and 24 capsule for pilgrims to nap in for free in the coming days.

Each fiberglass pod—less than three meters long and just over one meter high—features a mattress, clean sheets, air conditioning and a large, well-lit mirror.

The pods can be lined up horizontally or stacked vertically to save on space.

“We are always thinking about pilgrims and how to make them more comfortable during the rituals of hajj,” Amer told AFP. The nap pods provide a solution for pilgrims of limited means who cannot afford to book hotels on site but need a quick rest during hajj. AFP

ITALY BURIES DEAD AMID OUTRAGE OVER BRIDGE COLLAPSE GENOA, Italy—Italy was preparing an official day of mourning Saturday to commemorate the dozens of people killed in Genoa’s bridge disaster with some outraged relatives of victims set to shun the official ceremonies.

The populist government has blamed the operator of the viaduct for Tuesday’s collapse that killed at least 38 people in the northern Italian city and threatened to strip the firm of its contracts.

Authorities have planned a state funeral service on Saturday at a hall in Genoa, coinciding with a day of mourning.

Relatives who gathered at the hall on Friday embraced and prayed over lines of coffins, many adorned with flowers and photographs of the dead.

But according to La Stampa newspaper, the families of 17 victims have refused to take part, while a further seven have yet to decide whether they will attend.

“It is the state who has provoked this; let them not show their faces, the parade of politicians is shameful,” the press cited the mother of one of four young Italians from Naples who died.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte are due to preside over the state funeral.

The father of another of the dead from Naples took to social media to vent his anger.

“My son will not become a number in the catalogue of deaths caused by Italian failures,” said his grieving father, Roberto. “We do not want a farce of a funeral but a ceremony at home.” AFP

MEXICO SEIZES 50 TONS OF METH IN SINALOA LAB MEXICO CITY—Mexican marines seized a record 50 tons of crystal meth from a drug lab in the state of Sinaloa, authorities said Friday.

The military said it detected the lab in the town of Alcoyonqui, near the state capital Culiacan, and raided it on Thursday.

“A clandestine narco-lab and two underground store rooms were secured and dismantled, with approximately 50 tons of processed crystal meth in solid and liquid form,” the marines said in a statement.

Sinaloa is home to the drug cartel of the same name, formerly run by drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman until his extradition to the United States in January 2017.

Local media reports said the lab was on territory controlled by the Sinaloa cartel.

The Mexican government deployed the army to fight the country’s powerful drug cartels in 2006.

The strategy has led to numerous highprofile kingpin arrests and drug seizures.

But it has also been accompanied by a wave of violence that has left more than 200,000 murders in its wake. AFP

W

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor / Jimbo Gulle, Issue Editor

CNN: US-MADE BOMB KILLED YEMENI KIDS

ASHINGTON—The bomb that killed 40 children and 11 others in a Saudi-led coalition air strike on a bus in rebel-held northern Yemen was sold by the United States under a State Department deal with Riyadh, CNN has reported.

The numbers on shrapnel, of which images were taken shortly after the attack this month, indicate that it was a laser-guided Mk 82 bomb manufactured by defense contractor Lockheed Martin, CNN said Friday, citing munitions experts.

Former president Barack Obama banned the sale of precision-guided weaponry to Saudi Arabia after it used a similar bomb in an October 2016 attack that killed 140 people at a funeral in the rebel-held capital Sanaa.

But President Donald Trump overturned that ban after taking office in 2017.

Fifty-six children were also among the 79 people wounded in the August 9 strike on Saada province, a rebel stronghold that borders Saudi Arabia, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The coalition has promised an internal inquiry but analysts and aid groups have voiced doubt that it is ready to provide the transparency and accountability demanded by

the wider international community.

It is part of the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, a conflict that has killed nearly 10,000 people since the Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in March 2015 as Huthi rebel fighters closed in on the last bastion of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi’s government.

Coalition commanders have admitted a small number of mistakes, but there has been no public disciplinary action or changes to the rules of engagement.

The commanders have accused rebels of using civilians as human shields.

On Friday, the United Nations invited Yemen’s government and Iran-backed Huthi rebels to Geneva, Switzerland next month for talks on resolving the country’s civil war.

“I can confirm that the Office of

the Special Envoy sent out invitations to the government of Yemen and to Ansarullah,” UN spokeswoman Alessandra Vellucci told reporters.

Ansarullah, which means Supporters of God, refers to the Huthi rebels group that has been battling the Saudi-backed internationally recognized government in a conflict that has killed nearly 10,000 people since 2015.

The UN’s Yemen envoy Martin Griffiths has said the talks due to open on September 6 will be aimed at charting a path forward to revive UN-backed negotiations which broke down in 2016.

Vellucci said she had no information on whether representatives from Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—another key government backer—had also been invited to Geneva. AFP

FOR SALE. An Egyptian boy holds a camel at the Berqash camel market northeast of Cairo on Friday.

Muslims across the world are preparing for the Eid al-Adha holiday when custom requires the faithful to make a sacrifice. AFP

MORE THAN 320 DEAD IN INDIA FLOOD CRISIS KOCHI, India—Pressure intensified Saturday to save thousands still trapped by devastating floods that have killed more than 300 in the Indian state of Kerala, triggering landslides and sending torrents sweeping through villages in the region’s worst inundation crisis in a century.

Authorities warned of more torrential rain and strong winds over the weekend, as hundreds of troops and local fishermen staged desperate rescue attempts in helicopters and boats across the southern state.

Kerala, popular among interna-

tional tourists for its tropical hills and beaches, has been battered by record monsoon rainfall this year.

The state is “facing the worst floods in 100 years”, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Twitter, adding that at least 324 lives have been lost so far.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the stricken state on Friday night, Vijayan’s office tweeted, with media reports saying the premier would undertake an aerial survey of the worst-affected areas on Saturday.

People all over the state of 33 million have made panicked appeals on social media for help, saying they cannot make contact with rescue services as power and communication lines are down.

“My family and neighbouring families are in trouble,” wrote Ajo Varghese, a resident of the coastal city of Alappuzha, in a Facebook post that quickly went viral.

“No water and food. Not able to communicate from afternoon.

Mobile phones are not reachable...

Please help,” he added.

Other distressed messages were shared online from people trapped inside temples and hospitals as well as their homes.

More than 30 military helicopters and 320 boats are attempting rescues across Kerala after some areas were engulfed by overflowing rivers, with residents seen swimming and wading through chest-high waters past partially submerged houses.

Authorities said thousands of people have been taken to safety so far but 6,000 more are still waiting for rescue. AFP

EX-CIA DIRECTORS JOIN TOP SPIES TO CONDEMN TRUMP

WASHINGTON—Former Central Intelligence Agency directors and another half dozen of America’s most senior spies have issued an unprecedented condemnation of President Donald Trump, after his decision to blacklist their colleague John Brennan.

In a statement, ex-CIA bosses appointed by Republican and Democratic presidents—including Robert Gates, George Tenet, Porter Goss, Leon Panetta and David Petraeus—denounced Trump’s decision to strip Brennan of his security clearance.

Dozens of other former spies signaled their support for the statement.

“The president’s action regarding John Brennan and the threats of similar action against other former officials has nothing to do with who should

and should not hold security clearances—and everything to do with an attempt to stifle free speech,” the statement read.

Describing Trump’s move as “inappropriate and deeply regrettable,” they insisted: “We have never before seen the approval or removal of security clearances used as a political tool, as was done in this case.”

Two of those who signed the statement—former director of national intelligence James Clapper and former CIA director Michael Hayden—are, according to Trump, on a list of people who could lose their clearance.

Former officials often retain security clearance after leaving office to allow their successors to consult them on issues of the day.

FAITHFUL OF LIGHT. Worshippers take part in the 2018 annual Holy Convocation of “La Luz del Mundo” (The Light of the World) church on Tuesday, in Guadalajara, Jalisco state, Mexico, where its headquarters are located. AFP

Images

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

BEFORE AND AFTER THE STORMS M

ETRO Manila and most of Luzon were lashed by three typhoons over the last fortnight, raising up floodwaters not seen since typhoon “Ondoy” and tons of garbage that washed up on the shores of the metropolis— and turned iconic Roxas Boulevard into a sea of trash.

But elsewhere in the country, nature showed its full glory, seemingly forgetting that summer is past its place in the calendar. Trees showed their lushness, beaches sparkled invitingly, and young and old alike frolicked in places like Sarangani in Mindanao, far from the gloom their countrymen to the north had to endure.

Farther north, schoolchildren of all ages were made to go through earthquake drills in Baguio City, which has had its share of terrifying temblors. If nothing else, this activity showed that whatever the weather, in season or out, it pays to be prepared. Jimbo Gulle

VIRGIN CANOPY. Visitors appreciate the shade of the neem tree forest inside the Pacman beach resort in Tinoto, Sarangani. Sonny Espiritu

CALMING SEA. Rain or shine, the waves near the shoreline of the Pacman beach resort in Tinoto, Sarangani always stay calm, allowing an adventurous mother and sun a chance to play on an ocean bike and escape the stresses in life, if only for an afternoon. Sonny Espiritu

GETTING READY. Baguio City joins the Quarterly National Earthquake drill as elementary students from Dominican Elementary School go through the disaster preparedness exercise on campus. Dave Leprozo Jr.

CLEANUP. Workers from Quezon City’s Environment Protection and Waste Management Division put trash in sacks during a cleanup drive along a street at Barangay San Antonio (above), while groundsmen push a cart full of branches trimmed from the trees of Hotel Sofitel along a road in Pasay City. Manny Palmero and Sonny Espiritu

FATIGUED. A woman takes a nap beside her merchandise along

the busy sidewalk of Divisoria Market in Manila. Lisa Marie P. David

MOBILE HOME. An elderly handicapped man roams the streets of Manila’s Ermita district with his wheelchair, which also serves as his home. Ey Acasio

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Opinion HAIRDRESSER,... From B1

IMRAN KHAN: PLAYBOY PAKISTAN CRICKET HERO TURNED PRIME MINISTER ISLAMABAD—Imran Khan was catapulted to global fame as a World Cup cricket champion, but the man known in the West as a celebrity playboy has become prime minister of Pakistan as a populist, religiously devout, anti-corruption reformist.

The former national cricket captain was sworn in as leader of the nucleararmed country of 207 million people on Saturday, coming to power as Pakistan faces challenges on multiple fronts.

His “New Pakistan” represents an end to decades of rotating leadership by the ousted Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party, punctuated by stretches of military rule.

“I promise that we will bring that change, for which this nation was starving,” he told MPs during a raucous parliament session on Friday, which saw the opposition chant

protest slogans against him.

In the West, the man who led Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup champion cricket team is typically seen through the prism of his celebrity and memories of his high-profile romances.

These include a nine-year marriage to British film producer and activist Jemima Goldsmith, then a university student.

Back home the thrice-married 65-year-old cuts a more conservative persona as a devout Muslim, often carrying prayer beads and nurturing beliefs in living saints.

Earlier this year, he married his spiritual advisor Bushra Maneka, with wedding photos showing the new bride clad in an ultra-conservative veil—a huge departure from his days in the British tabloids.

Also this year he roused the ire of women after saying feminism has “degraded the role of a mother.”

Khan is also described as impulsive and brash and has been accused of being too tolerant of militancy and of having close ties to Pakistan’s military establishment.

But to his legions of fans, especially young people, he is uncorrupted and generous, spending his years off the pitch building hospitals and a university.

‘End the hatred’ Khan entered Pakistan’s chaotic politics in 1996 promising to fight graft.

For his first decade and a half as a politician he sputtered, with his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party never securing more than a few seats in the national assembly.

“Sports teaches you that life is not in a straight line,” he told AFP earlier this year. “You take the knocks. You learn from your mistakes.”

In 2012, the PTI’s popularity surged with hordes of young Pakistanis who grew up idolizing Khan as a cricket icon reaching voting age.

Khan admits his party was illprepared to capitalize on the wave during the 2013 election. But that was then.

Five years later, the PTI ran a nationwide campaign, mobilizing support in areas far from its northwestern and urban strongholds.

Polls showed the party’s popularity climbing nationally going into the crunch vote while the outgoing PML-N limped into the contest, complaining the surge in support for Khan was the result of military pressure.

Analysts have said that along with the youth vote, Khan may have tapped into anger among Pakistan’s growing middle class, fed up with the corruption that characterized both the PPP and PML-N governments.

Some fear Khan’s mercurial nature is unsuited to being prime minister.

Khan has also been attacked for his repeated calls to hold talks with militants and for his party’s alliance with Sami ul Haq, the so-called “Father of the Taliban” whose madrassas educated Taliban stalwarts Mullah Omar and Jalaluddin Haqqani.

In July, the Al-Qaeda-linked Harkat-ul-Mujahideen announced its support for Khan’s party, with pictures of the US-designated terrorist group’s leader posing with PTI hopefuls posted online.

Khan, though, grabbed the best opportunity many believed he would ever have to seize the biggest prize of the sporting icon’s life. AFP

THE... From B1 such protectionism?

If more tallow is consumed, then there must be more oxen and sheep; and, consequently, we will see the multiplication of meadows, meat, wool, and hides.

If more oil is consumed, then we will stimulate more cultivation of the poppy, olive, and rape. These rich and soil-exhausting plants will come at the right time to enable us to avail ourselves of the increased fertility that the rearing of additional cattle will impart to our lands.

Our heaths will be covered with

resinous trees. Numerous swarms of bees will, on the mountains, gather perfumed treasures, now wasting their fragrance on the desert air, like the flowers from which they emanate.

Thus, there is no branch of agriculture that shall not greatly develop.

The same remark applies to navigation. Thousands of vessels will proceed to the whale fishery; and in a short time, we shall possess a navy capable of maintaining the honor of France, and gratifying the patriotic aspirations of your petitioners, the undersigned candlemakers and others.

Only have the goodness to reflect, gentlemen, and you will be convinced that there is perhaps no Frenchman, from the wealthy coalmaster to the

humblest vendor of lucifer matches, whose lot will not be improved by the success of this our petition.

As long as you exclude, as you do, coal, iron, corn, foreign fabrics, in proportion as their price approximates to zero, what inconsistency it would be to admit the light of the Sun, the price of which is already at zero during the entire day!

Economic Lessons: If you wouldn’t object to receiving free light from the Sun, then you shouldn’t object to receiving free goods from foreigners. And even though free goods aren’t usually available, you shouldn’t object to Filipinos being able to buy cheap goods from foreigners at prices

below those offered by domestic producers.

If you wouldn’t object to the Sun “dumping” free light on the Philippine economy every day, then you shouldn’t complain about foreign producers “dumping” low-cost goods on the Philippine economy at prices allegedly below the cost of production.

Suppose the Sun is able to provide free light to Filipinos only because the citizen-taxpayers of the Sun subsidize the production of light on their star. If you wouldn’t object to free light from the Sun that is only made available for free due to somebody subsidizing that production, then you shouldn’t object to goods being made available to Filipinos at low prices that result from

Robinson said Friday, perched on her hairdresser’s stool, grey hair swept back, lipstick perfectly applied and elegantly dressed in black.

“She never tried to project herself as ‘being Aretha’ or ‘get out of my way.’

Never, never, never.”

The soul legend had several, if not many hairdressers in Michigan, but Robinson was the one she chose to style her hair for appearances on the Oprah Winfrey Show and the BET Awards.

“I would hear her singing in the bathroom when I was traveling with her,” she recalled. “You never heard somebody singing and it sounds like a full orchestra behind them? That’s Aretha. Beautiful voice.”

Flying earring “She loved it when I did her hair,” Robinson said. “She said ‘Jacqueline you’re very special, you have a wonderful touch.’”

Robinson’s brain is packed with indelible memories, such as chatting backstage with Winfrey and Mary J Blige, or not a dry eye in the house after Aretha’s performance of “Amazing Grace.”

“I mean, there were so many tears, so many tears. She’s so wonderful.

Oprah was crying. It was great.”

There were also moments of hilarity. For the BET Awards, Aretha asked her to style her tresses into a chignon, which the performer planned to reveal as a “wow factor” on stage by suddenly whipping off a wig.

Except, when she did, the wig sent flying a priceless earring on loan from a jeweler in New York for the telecast.

As producers frantically cut to a commercial break, Robinson joined everyone else on their hands and knees until the earring was found.

Music legend Stevie Wonder and R&B singer Alicia Keys were at those awards, she remembers. “When it was over I got to eat dinner with all these people... It was wonderful.”

‘Inspirational’ It wasn’t just hair. Aretha stopped by the same salon for $80 mani-pedis with manicurist Shawn Frazier for 10 to 15 years. Rust orange, silver and a blue-silver were her favorite colors, Frazier recalled.

“People were so amazed that she would just come in and just be normal.

Her security would sit up front, and her driver, but she would walk around,” Frazier said. “She just made you feel comfortable.”

Frazier bubbled over with memories of the lavish Christmas parties that Aretha would host, one set in a winter wonderland made to look like snow, with music, food and invitations by special delivery.

Franklin’s signature song, “Respect,” was her calling card, a feminist anthem and one that inspired generations of women all over the world.

To Robinson, she was also “very, very inspirational... as an African American woman.” After training in Europe, Robinson was in the 1970s the first black hairdresser to work at a fancy white salon.

“Miss Franklin was very, very, very encouraging,” she told AFP. “Don’t be afraid, there are enough women who are going to support you,” she remembered Aretha saying.

“She gave us all pride,” Robinson concluded. “Aretha was always Aretha, always high, always singing ‘I love Detroit.’ Always, she said that. So she was inspirational for all of us.” AFP foreign subsidies.

If you wouldn’t be so foolish to think that the Sun is stealing our jobs, prosperity, and wealth by providing free light, you likewise shouldn’t be so foolish to think that foreigners are stealing our jobs, prosperity, and wealth by providing us with low-cost consumer goods.

If you don’t object that the Sun provides massive amounts of free light to Filipinos but doesn’t buy any products that are “Made in the Philippines,” then you shouldn’t object to the fact that Filipinos buy (import) more products from foreigners than we sell (export) to foreigners. eric.jurado@gmail.com

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018

Business

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

CSR CONFAB PROMOTES INNOVATION

A

LAGUNABASED millennial abandoned her plan to work as a physical therapist in the United States two years ago to stay with her family and start a restaurant business.

Jary Rie Eliseo Olivares decided to put up a cafe in a property owned by her father along Pacita Ave., a hectic stretch in the industrial town of San Pedro.

“I opened the first restaurant on May 15, 2016. I was 25 then. That was the year I was supposed to go to the States. I was supposed to get my license. But my dad kept on asking me to stay in the country and open a business instead. It was the same script everyday until I said ‘fine’ I will try it. He was very happy,” says Olivares, whose father is into real estate.

Her initial investment was P1 million, which she borrowed from her parents.

Little did she know that she would recoup the capital after a few months and would reuse it to expand the business until she now owns six cafes and restaurants at the age of 27.

“I was afraid when I was starting WGM [Wagamama] Café because of the expenses.

I estimated that I would spend more than P100,000 each month for salary of my employees, electricity, water and rent. How could I raise that kind of money? But my father said ‘just go on with it and you will see’. Then I saw that I could earn from it, and even have some savings,” says Olivares, the eldest among the four Olivares siblings who are mostly in the field of Medicine.

Olivares, who lives in Cabuyao, runs six restaurants under the brands WGM Café and Pizzeria, Oppa Samgyeopsal and Jeju Bingsu in the towns of San Pedro, Biñan, San Pedro and Cabuyao.

“I consider my six restaurants as my children,” says Olivares, who is still unmarried. She oversees more than 30 employees who are also mostly millennials.

“My mom helps, and my dad who is into real estate development advises,” says Olivares, whose business acumen developed early at a young age of 10 when she sold ice candy and ‘gulaman’ drinks at a vacant lot near her home.

She says running a restaurant involves a lot of responsibilities, like overseeing her staff, dealing with customers, managing the cash flow and personally attending to every problem.

“When I opened my first restaurant, I was the one who bought the stocks and served as the cashier. We had no table numbers then. I thought I could easily remember all the customers by their face. But

Speakers at the 17th CSR Expo and Conference include leaders and CSR practitioners from diverse industries.

MILLENNIAL OWNS SIX LAGUNA RESTAURANTS

Restaurateur Jary Rie Eliseo Olivares

on the first day, there were so many customers I could not recall all of them. That was a learning experience,” says Olivares.

“There were also times that I had to lock the door because we had so many orders,” she says. “We had to close for one day to brainstorm and find out how to resolve the problems.” “ The first few weeks were challenging and became a learning experience. I was so tired being a cashier and stocks buyer. I lost weight then. When I got to know the crew better, I trusted one to become a cashier,” she says.

“That’s how you do it. There were so many businesses that had to close shop because of mismanagement.

You have to focus, especially in the restaurant business where a lot could happen,” says Olivares.

With the success of her first WGM Cafe in Pacita, she opened a second branch in Biñan five months later. “I was pushed by my dad to branch out.

He told me to take advantage of it while it is earning,” she says.

WGM Cafe is k nown for its bestseller drinks including Manhattan Ice Blended which is made of dark chocolate and ice cream and Mt. Fuji frappe a mix of vanilla, toasted marshmallow and dark chocolate.

WGM Cafe now has three branches in Pacita, Biñan and Cabuyao. WGM Cafe was recently recognized as the “Most Trendy Cafe” in Laguna.

A trip to Seoul last year also encouraged Olivares to put up a Korean restaurant—Oppa Samgyeopsal which offers K-Pop vibe aside from sumptuous Korean dishes. Oppa received various awards such as “Most Authentic Korean

Restaurant” in Laguna. Her latest restaurant is Jeju.

Olivares now thinks about opening WGM Café to franchising in order to expand the brand outside Laguna province.

“I enjoy running the business.

I don’t consider it a burden.

Although it is stressful, it is worth it. I think it is right field for me, and not Medicine,” says Olivares, who studied Physical Therapy at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute in Cavite for five years and passed the US board exam.

She says the secret behind the rapid expansion is that she took advantage of the growth opportunities in the restaurant business in Laguna province. “I invest the money immediately.

My liquidity goes to branching out,” she says.

“My restaurants are near villages and schools,” says Olivares, to point out the importance of location in attracting customers. Each store has an average size of 80 to 100 square meters, except for the first WGM Cafe which is larger because of its events area at the second floor.

Olivares says aside from opening more restaurants, she is also interested in going to the spa business. Her ideas of relaxation, after all, include eating out and going to the spa and gym.

Olivares advises her fellow millennials not to be afraid in establishing their own business. “I would advise young entrepreneurs to be fearless.

There are a lot of challenges to starting up your own business, but then you should start it to make it happen. It could not just be all ideas in your head. Proper reviewing and researching are important in business, but then the most important part is execution. So you have to execute it,” she says.

“You can start small, like a stall or foodcart whichever is comfortable for you, and eventually you can put up a store if you want,” says Olivares.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

INNOVATION is gaining significance in changing how companies do business and transform peoples’ lives for the better. To further elevate the standards of corporate social responsibility programs and how they deliver sustainable positive difference in communities, the League of Corporate Foundations put innovation at the centre of this year’s CSR Conference that was recently held at the New World Hotel in Makati City.

The two-day forum aimed to form a community of learners, engage new groups, companies and institutions and uphold a culture of collaboration and development in discussing and opening new opportunities and possible solutions to pressing issues such as poverty, inequality and climate change.

This year’s theme, “Innov8 for a B etter Wor ld ”, highlighted the importance of innovating on CSR programs to more effectively build inclusive growth for the benefit of all Filipinos amid changes and challenges in the Philippine socio-economic and environmental conditions.

Topics during the plenary sessions focused on innovations in CSR leadership, CSR as a business strategy, CSR excellence, reviewing community relations and grassroots development, and discussions on public and private partnerships, educational innovations and environmental stewardship.

Chito Maniago, vice chairperson of the LCF Board of Trustees, chair of the CSR Expo 2018 and executive director of Cemex Philippines Foundation, noted how social movements are helmed by a community of CSR leaders to become a collaborative force for shaping a sustainable future for individuals and communities.

The need for business leaders to be “change agents” that explore new perspectives in CSR with focus on environment, sustainability and economics in their business strategy was highlighted during the first plenary discussion.

From the leaders to employees working on the ground, CSR practitioners know firsthand how authentic relationships with communities are the foundation of successful social development programs. At the forum, innovations on communications, brand integration a n d re p u t a t i o n b u i l d i n g we re enforced—reiterating values and a corporate commitment to be a good neighbor as vital components in making lasting positive change among lives in communities.

New perspectives on addressing specific sectors’ unmet needs such as those of women, youth, and soldiers, among others, were also undertaken during the conference and how they are being addressed through public and private sector collaboration for grassroots development.

From its humble beginnings in the early 90s, the LCF has grown into a network of almost 100 corporate foundations and corporations in the Philippines and remained at the forefront of promoting, enhancing and synergizing CSR innovations among its members.

AP CARGO EMBRACES DIGITIZATION

By Julianne Edon Gabis

From left: Ramco director of sales in the Philippines Raman Iyer; Ramco head of Asia operations Subbraman Ramaswamy; Ramco Systems chief executive Virender Aggarwal, AP Cargo chief executive Virgilio Villacorte, his wife Teresita Villacorte and AP Cargo chief finance officer Randi Ovidio Lorica.

LOCAL logistics provider company AP Cargo signed a multimillion-dollar deal with global enterprise software player Ramco for its logistics software on Aug. 9.

Ramco beat local and global competitors and secured its partnership with AP Cargo.

Under the partnership, AP Cargo’s integrated logistics platform will be rolled out next year and will benefit more than 1,600 employees, covering more than 500 fleet, reducing manual workloads and generating cost savings while automating tedious administrative tasks.

Having to witness rapid growth in the region of the Philippines, with nearly 40 percent of the new order booking for AsiaPacific in 2017- 2018, Ramco’s continuous

thrust on logistics segment and focus on employing some of the innovative minds locally, has been strengthening the company’s position in the region.

“This win represents another milestone in our ongoing journey to strengthen our presence in the high-growth Asean economies,” said Ramco Systems chief executive Virender Aggarwal.

The partnership does not only aim to increase cost savings for AP Cargo but it will also serve as an opportunity for its employees to have a better opportunity to grow, said AP Cargo president and chief executive Virgilio Villacorte.

Villacorte said his two sons heavily influenced the decision to sign the agreement with Ramco and one of them is vice president

for business operations Vincent John Villacorte.

“I didn’t know how to do it until my youngest came with his brother and kept on pushing me on something that we don’t have much money in our pockets for,” said Villacorte.

He said that as a person who was born in a generation naive with digitization, he kept on settling for second best. “It was hard for me to weigh. I came to a point when I asked my wife ‘let’s listen to the voice of these two boys.’”

“The decision to automate our manual systems with a future-ready logistics suite is part of a larger strategy to overhaul our supply chain. Ramco’s unified solution will offer realtime operational visibility and better planning capabilities, enabling us to arrest revenue leakage and boost productivity to drive overall growth,” said Vicent John Villacorte.

Business

C2

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 business@manilastandard.net

THE RISE OF FILIPINO PROSUMERS Havas Ortega chairman Jos Ortega

By Rhosedel Grace Gabac Filipino consumers are becoming more socially-responsible as they realized how their purchasing power can influence not just the marketplace, but the society as a whole.

This opens up a sudden shift leading to a new trend from mindless consumption towards meaningful consumption, according to “Emerging Shifts in Filipino Consumption Mindsets”, a study shared by Havas Ortega Group.

The study found that 93 percent of the so-called Filipino prosumers today believe in their responsibility, and 86 percent believe in their capacity to make a difference in the world.

Pr o s u m e r s a r e l e a d i n g - e d g e consumers that explore and embrace innovation and constantly seek out information and experience. They are highly influential in their larger-thanaverage, but intimate social circles, marketing savvy, demanding of brands, enthusiastic adopters, testers and disseminators of new content, new media and new tech.

“These numbers indicate that Filipino prosumers have truly realized the power they have in influencing not just the marketplace but society as a whole,” says PhilipTiongson, Havas Ortega’s head of data analytics.

The research found that 49 percent of Filipino prosumers believe in the strength of their purchasing power more than their voting power, and 60 percent will choose a product depending on a company’s values or political and social activities.

“The mere act of choosing at the grocery, at the supermarket, in a boutique, or in the mall are more than just shopping and buying of Filipino prosumers. The choice in itself carries ripples of effect to the rest of the society. For them, the power to choose is more than just about which brand or product to bring home; the choice also reflects how they are answering the call to be socially-responsible individuals,” Tiongson said.

As t h e Fi l i p i n o co n s u m p t i o n mindset starts to shift in this direction, organizations and brands face the challenge of developing products and services that appeal to these consumers’ emerging needs and considerations.

Jos Ortega, the company’s chairman and chief executive, said businesses have to adapt by taking the consumers’ guilt out of the equation and helping them express a ‘me’ they feel good about whenever they buy.

“Businesses will stay relevant and be able to navigate ever-changing markets with ease and effectiveness by responding to the evolving priorities and aspirations of Filipino consumers today – their need to grow into and present their best selves, to make a positive contribution in the world, to support community, and country, to be less wasteful and help the planet,” Ortega said.

T

LENOVO COUNTRY HEAD SEES BIGGER PC MARKET

HE Philippines has one of the fastest growing PC markets in Southeast Asia, according to Lenovo Philippines country general manager Michael Ngan.

“The Philippine market will continue to grow for PC [personal computers]. It already exceeded 2 million units annually, up from only 1.8 million to 1.9 million a year in the past,” says Ngan, who has been at the helm of Lenovo Philippines for five years now.

A repor t from market research firm International Data Corp. or IDC shows that PC shipments in the Philippines rose 1 percent in 2017 to hit 2 million units amid the popularity of gaming and e-sports in the country and the digitalization of education.

The 2 million PC units last year included 900,000 desktops, 100,000 detachable tablets, 1.2 million notebooks and 950,000 slate tablets.

IDC said “the mobility trend and large millennial Filipino population are propelling traditional PC adoption to even higher levels.”

Lenovo is the world’s second largest maker of PC, data from IDC show. It sold 13.76 million PCs in the second quarter of 2018 and accounted for a fifth of the global market. It also posted the fastest growth of 11.3 percent among the players, exceeding those of HP, Dell, Apple and Acer.

“If you compare it to other Asean countries, it is only the Philippines that is growing extremely fast,” says Ngan, who heads a team of 45 in the Philippines.

Ngan used to work for IBM, before its PC business was acquired by Beijing-based Lenovo in 2005. Lenovo continued its expansion over the next decade, acquiring more brands such as Motorola Mobility for smartphones and Fujitsu and NEC for laptops. Lenovo’s other brands include ThinkPad, IdeaPad, Yoga, Legion, IdeaCentre and ThinkCentre.

Ngan says Lenovo is also the first in the market to introduce a Google assistant display which will be available in Asia soon.

He says while Lenovo has smartphones, it chooses to concentrate on the PC market in the Philippines with equal focus on consumer and corporate segments. Ngan says Lenovo has a strong following among the gaming community, the education sector and businesses.

Ngan says that in the Philippines, Lenovo ranks second in the PC segment. What is more exciting, he says, is that the country continues to grow.

“There are many factors. The PC penetration rate here is low [which means there is room for growth]. If you have money, the first gadget that you will buy is smartphone. Suddenly, you will realize that you need laptop,” he says.

He says the Department of Education’s computerization project also contributed to a strong increase in the commercial space in the Philippines.

Ngan says the market is particularly strong for first-time buyers. “If you go to a store with credit financing or flexi finance, the market for first-time buyers is big. Most of these first-time buyers are in the provinces and tier-three cities.

There are so many of them. We have business partners who even tap appliance stores to sell laptops,” says Ngan.

Ngan predicts that once internet gains speed in the Philippines, the PC market will grow even bigger. “We have slow internet. Imagine if we have faster Internet. The whole nation will buy laptops,” he says.

Lenovo Philippines country general manager Michael Ngan

Since taking over as head of Lenovo Philippines in 2013, Ngan and his team were able to spur growth in the segment by increasing the sales of personal computers, laptops/notebooks, tablets and phablets. He led the team in strengthening the company’s retail presence by opening more exclusive stores nationwide.

As a global company, Lenovo reported that group revenue reached $11.91 billion in the second quarter of 2018, up 19 percent from a year ago.

“As we persistently execute our 3-wave strategy, all our businesses made solid improvements in both revenue and profitability.

Lenovo has passed the turning point and

entered a phase of ‘acceleration’- accelerating the execution of our transformation strategy and accelerating the rising momentum in business performance,” Lenovo chairman and chief executive Yang Yuanqing says in a statement.

“In the future, we will maintain industry leading profitability and premium to market growth in PCs; return the smartphone business to health; build the data center business into a sustainable growth and profit engine, and continue to invest in ‘Smart IoT + Cloud’ and ‘Infrastructure + Cloud’ to drive long term sustainable return,” says Yuanqing.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

DLSU STUDENTS BACK-TO-BACK CHAMPIONS OF GO GREEN IN THE CITY

From left: Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance president and Blue Sky Energy Corp. chief executive Alexander Ablaza, Schneider Electric Philippines chief finance officer Douglas Luiz De Camargo, Schneider Electric Philippines country president Alexandre Vermot, 2018 Go Green in the City Philippine champions Don Emmanuel Santamaria and Fae Nicole Serrano, Philippine Green Building Initiative executive vice president and chief operating officer Amado De Jesus Jr. and ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation Inc. - Bantay Kalikasan program director Jen Santos.

TEAM Green Goldies of De La Salle University-Manila won the Philippine Country Finals of the Go Green in the City 2018 national competition sponsored by Schneider Electric at Holiday Inn & Suites in Makati City on Aug. 14.

Go Green in the City is an annual global business case challenge hosted by Schneider Electric to empower students to unleash their skills and creativity in creating the next big innovation to promote smart cities and green energy management.

The competition enables students to be more proactive in dealing and addressing global problems, thus providing topics on sustainability and inclusivity, the digital economy, smart supply chain, cybersecurity, and no boundaries or bold ideas for going green.

Santamaria and Serrano’s got the nod of the board of judges for their e-Hub project which is designed to package all things renewable into one mobile application. The three primary features of the app are to allow users to invest and donate on renewable energy projects, project developers to propose ideas and

initiatives and set-up crowdfunding, and an e-store to buy and sell products related to green energy.

Other features the app include latest news on renewables, articles and blogs from users, games, and average prices of various sources of electricity. E-Hub is an innovative financing mechanism that grants access to greener energy to address the decline in renewable energy investments and the low level awareness with regards to it.

This follows the 2017 Country Finals win of DLSU-Manila students Iliana Benice Tan and Aaron Jules Del Rosario who secured the first runner-up spot in the regional finals for their Glass X project, a design that absorbs the heat being received by building from the sun and converts it into energy for a building’s own cooling system.

For the first time in the competition’s history here in the Philippines, Go Green in the City has attracted student partners who have come from different schools that have always been strong rivals in the field of sports. Schneider Electric believes that this goes in line with having no

boundaries as it strengthens the ideation process of each team while nurturing a collaborative environment between schools.

From over 400 entries nationwide, the Philippine Country Finalists of Go Green in the City 2018 are: Syd Ian Matthew De Ama (Far Eastern University) and Chelsea Kate Lavilla (University of Sto. Tomas) aka Team Foodies; Don Emmanuel Santamaria and Fae Nicole Serrano (De La Salle University-Manila) aka Team Green Goldies; and, Earle Kit Sanchez (Mapua Institute of Technology) and Kathlyn Mae Yap (De La Salle University) aka Team OffTheGrid. “ Through Go Green in the City competition, we aim to empower the youth by letting them exercise their creativity as they develop green and sustainable ideas. Go Green in the City is their platform to share their concepts and ideas that can help make a Smart Nation out of the Philippines and other countries by embracing digitization, innovation and sustainability,” said Schneider Electric Philippines country president Alexandre Vermot.

Tech & Gadgets

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

NEW GENERATION OF NOKIA 2, 3 SMARTPHONES ARRIVES IN PH

By Angelica Villanueva

S

Sales Division Head Michael Castañeda discuss the importance of hightech and high-touch services.

TARTING Aug. 29, tech and phone enthusiasts will get to experience an upgraded quality and craftsmanship as HMD global officially launches the newest members of Nokia Android smartphones—the Nokia 2.1 and the Nokia 3.1.

EASTERN COMMUNICATIONS: STRONGER CONNECTIVITY ON 140TH YEAR

With its aim to deliver a better mobile experience, HMD global makes sure that its newest entry-level smartphones will bring premium features from design up to their specifications and features that will surely fit the Filipino standards.

“At HMD global, innovation means merging premium quality with affordability and accessibility. The Nokia 3.1 and Nokia 2.1 are just two of the breakthroughs we are proud to bring to the Filipinos, with the design and technology upgrade for even better mobile experience,” said HMD Global Philippines country manager Shannon Mead.

The new-generation phones feature a classy and elegant look with an affordable price. Nokia 3.1 highlights sophistication and premium design, meanwhile, Nokia 2.1 showcases a highquality of entertainment experiences.

Nokia 3.1: Balanced power and design

Dubbed by Google as the best-in-class experience across hardware and software, Nokia 3.1 is made up of machined metal frame and sculpted glass display giving its users a sophisticated aluminum design. It has a 52-inch HD+ display. Protecting it is 2.5D Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3. It runs on an octa-core MediaTek 6750 chip, giving its performance 50 percent faster than the

Nokia 2.1, 3.1: Take your pick

previous generation.

Rear and front cameras are also For users who are after selfies not a problem since it has an 8MP and groupies, it sports a 13MP rear shooter with auto focus and 5MP, camera and an 8MP front camera. respectively.

Nokia 2.1: Long-lasting entertainment

Stylish colors

A two-day battery life, a large 5.5-inch HD screen and dual frontfacing stereo speakers—Nokia 2.1 has it all to give you a high quality experience on your next entertainment session.

Designed to provide long-lasting entertainment, Nokia 2.1 has a 4,000mAh battery life to let you enjoy watching your favorite Netflix series without any halt.

Adding to its features is its upgraded Qualcomm™ Snapdragon® 425 64-bit Mobile Platform that will let its users switch between apps without any lag.

HMD Global Philippines Country Manager Shannon Mead announces the arrival of the Nokia 2.1 and 3.1.

When it comes to color, Nokia really knows how to keep up with the trend. Nokia 3.1 comes in three colors—Copper Blue, Black Chrome, and Iron White. As for Nokia 2.1, it comes in Copper Blue, Silver Blue, and Silver Grey.

Availability and pricing

Good thing is that pre-order of Nokia 3.1 is ongoing until Aug. 26.

Note that it comes with free JBL Go Bluetooth speaker. However, Nokia 2.1 and Nokia 3.1 will be officially available in Nokia mobile stores on Aug. 29, with price tags P5,990 and P9,990, respectively.

STARMOBILE BACKS NEXT BREED OF PH INNOVATORS

First place winner Team Eryl is composed of Patrick Dave Woogue, Cris Lawrence Militante, and Gabriel Pineda.

FILIPINO local manufacturer Starmobile partnered with Smart Communications, Inc. for its Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program, an annual competition for students to identify consumer pain points and design working technology solutions.

In line with its vision to make technology inclusive for everyone, Starmobile recognized the potential of these student projects in improving the Filipino consumer experience. The winning teams received 4 Starmobile phones each: PLAY Lite for 1st place, PLAY Max for 2nd place, and PLAY Plus for 3rd place.

First place winner was Team Eryl of University of San Carlos, creator of a mobile platform that allows students to join online classes or organize one.

Taking the second spot was Team Sportify, which devised a web and mobile app that links sports enthusiasts with each other to schedule games.

Third place went to Team Salvar for its app permiting users to book appointments with mental healthcare professionals.

Learn more about Starmobile by following its official website starmobile.ph or Facebook page facebook.com/starmobilephones.

UNIONBANK EMPOWERS EDUCATORS, STUDENTS WITH MICROSOFT TOOLS TECHNOLOGY has radically changed the way Filipinos live. Across the country, work, play, and communication are now heavily influenced by digital technologies.

This influence transfers to learning as well. As more modern workplaces now demand digital skills, it becomes paramount for educators to prepare its students for a digital workplace.

Clarissa Segismundo, Education Programs Lead of Microsoft Philippines, explained the importance of digital tools in learning.

“Engaging students remains one of the core pillars in the digital transformation of education. How they use technology is crucial in promoting collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills” said Segismundo.

But technology alone cannot develop the 21st-century skills students require.

Technology is an accelerator and an equalizer, but it needs guidance and knowledge on proper utilization to truly have an im-

pact on student development.

Through the Microsoft Education Ambassadors Program, Microsoft and UnionBank are working together to transform the educational landscape in the Philippines by equipping our educators and students with the right skills. The program aims to empower schools, educators and students with 21st century skills through the proper use of technology for teaching and learning. To date, there are over 1,000 Microsoft Education Ambassadors advocating teaching with technology in various parts of the country.

“It is UnionBank’s mission and vision to stay grounded on its purpose of ‘Making a Difference’. And we hope to truly make a difference with Microsoft. It’s an exciting time as UnionBank employees open new doors of opportunities for the youth through technology,” said Henry Aguda, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation officer of UnionBank.

With extensive experience in the industry, UnionBank’s education ambassadors can

Microsoft Education Ambassadors from UnionBank undergo training

share valuable insight on the demands and requirements of the modern workplace. It is the desire to impart knowledge and expertise to the country’s future workforce, that led Michaela Rubio, SVP and HR Director of UnionBank, to develop this program with Microsoft. “As Microsoft education ambassadors, UnionBank employees will serve as inspiration and valued resource persons

for students and teachers. They possess the necessary expertise and skills to meet industry standards and can pass these on to the next generation,” she said.

As ambassadors of education and technology, UnionBank’s MEAs will be training teachers on Microsoft tools and technologies to help improve productivity, classroom engagement, and learning outcomes.

EASTERN Communications celebrates its 140th year of modernity in the workplace with a bang as it offers new connectivity products and solutions at the Penthouse by the Bay at the Rizal Park Hotel.

These products are designed to deliver solutions to the connectivity needs of a modern Filipino workplace, including Global Data, DDOS protection, Microsoft Azure and Office 365, and managed SDWAN services.

High-Speed Global Data Services Perfect for businesses that have overseas branches like banking and finance, manufacturing, transport and distribution and business process outsourcing, high-speed global data services offer global business connectivity with reliable high bandwidth speeds that start at 1Mbps or higher.

With their existing portfolio, Eastern Communications has added Ethernet International Private Line and Global Multi-Protocol Label Switching that will provide not just a high-speed connection but also point-to-point and point to multipoint service that transmits simultaneous two-way traffic between local locations and across the world.

Managed Software Defined-Wide Area Networks This kind of connectivity product not just enables route traffic across a hybrid WAN but also improves network visibility and control, security, and better network planning.

This service is well suited for enterprises or companies with multisite and multi-branch businesses.

Through a Hybrid WAN, more bandwidths are available, bringing better performances for business-critical apps since the routing of bandwidth and the optimization of network transport services are improved.

Managed WiFi Mesh One of the common problems of businesses especially household business is having a weak connection since most of the internet connections do not cover the entire area.

That is why Eastern Communications offers the Managed WiFi Mesh services to deliver a strong internet connection across the entire office or household.

Eastern Communications also ensures that WiFi Mesh provides rich a whole new WiFi network, providing a rich interconnection beyond concrete walls. As a result, there will be no zero dead spots within the premises since it will complete covers the area.

Distributed Denial of Service Protection Since DDoS attacks have been spreading in the cyber-attack landscape rapidly, Eastern Communications presents its DDoS Protection service to prevent costly downtime for websites and applications.

DDoS attack means a server is deliberately targeted with very large numbers of requests, resulting in the blockage or crashing of the server.

“Eastern is going beyond connectivity. Aside from our Core solutions, customers love Eastern because of the quality of our services. As such, more and more Managed Servicesbased products are complementing our Internet, Data, and Voice. We offer end-to-end solutions, from access to the market leaders in cybersecurity to managing your security through unwavering customer support,” Product and Innovation Division Head Edsel Paglinawan explained.

This means that companies are protected from various cyber-attacks such as Volumetric Attacks, Protocol Attacks, Application Layer attacks, and others.

Cloud Services As the idea of cloud continues to rise globally, Eastern Communications adds to its list of services the Microsoft Azure Virtual Machines and Office 365. Angelica Villanueva

TECH & Gadgets

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

LENOVO'S NEW LAPTOPS FOR THE ‘MODERN AVID GAMER’

OPPO F9 PUTS PREMIUM ON SPEED, DESIGN

By MJ Blancaflor and Dexter Tilo

G

LOBAL smartphone giant OPPO has introduced OPPO F9, which offers a revolutionary flash charging technology and a bezel-less screen for a superb viewing experience.

Exclusively developed by OPPO, the revolutionary VOOC Flash Charge Technology of F9 allows a charging speed of up to four times faster than regular phones. It is equal to a quick five-minute charge for a two-hour talk time.

VOOC replaced the voltage reducing circuit with a MicroControlling Unit to ensure user safety, effectively preventing the mobile phone from overheating while charging. Through its intelligent five-layer protection system, the phone can still be used while keeping the speed of fast charging unlike in high voltage fast charge.

Equipped with a 3500mAh battery and optimized AI battery management, F9 can guarantee a longer battery life. The system closes inactive apps to save power by learning and establishing usage patterns and habits over time.

OPPO is no stranger in innovating breakthrough phones. It has recently launched OPPO Find X which boasts of an impressive 93.8% screen-tobody ratio—the highest in its class— by using a stealth 3D camera.

Meanwhile, OPPO F9 has a screento-body ratio of 90.8% and much more affordable than Find X, making it accessible to the middle class market. With a resolution of 2340x1080, the OPPO F9 has a 6.3-inch bezel-less screen and a tiny notch.

F9’s tiny notch houses a 25MP

selfie camera with hardware support for HDR. With the reinvented ‘SensorHDR’ technology, backlight selfies are improved and users can now check high dynamic exposure live effects in real-time. OPPO F9 also recognizes 296 feature points for its subjects, analyzes features and customizes enhancements based on its database of facial images.

The ‘selfie expert’ phone also inherits the AI Beauty Technology from its predecessors, beautifying selfies while maintaining the natural look of human subjects.

OPPO F9 is also the pioneer in the F series with its AI-enhanced dual rear cameras (16 MP + 2 MP). The dual cameras can create a gorgeous Bokeh effect and are able to intelligently identify 16 independent objects and 800 combined scenes shot in real time. F9 also offers a slow-motion mode for video that can be easily shared with friends.

OPPO F9 raises the bar among mid-range smartphones with its 6GB RAM for a smooth and fast performance. The phone also supports two nano sim cards slots and comes with a 64GB storage, which can be expanded to a greater capacity thanks to a 256GB microSD card slot.

Powered by ColorOS 5.2 Operating System, F9 analyzes and aggregates user preferences and interests to create a smarter and more intuitive

The Oppo F9 raises the bar in the mid-range smartphone segment.

experience. It allows multitasking: one can listen to music with screen off or handle incoming social media messaging while gaming. The F9 can also identify objects and show relevant search results through Google Lens.

“The F9 represents how our consumers inspire the brand to push boundaries and develop innovations that not only carve out trends in a technology-driven world, but also help these consumers make the most of their digitally-savvy lifestyles,” said Jane Wan, OPPO Philippines’ Vice President for Marketing.

Like other OPPO phones, F9 uses colorful gradients—Sunrise Red,

Twilight Blue and Starry Purple.

The first two color has a tessellated pattern while the latter one has a magnificent diamond-like pattern speckled with gold “stars.” A special spraying technique is used to achieve the refined gradient partnered with flower petal pattern in the phone’s body.

OPPO F9 can be purchased at an SRP of P17,990 (6GB RAM). It is also available with Smart at GigaX Plan 1299. Pre-order starts Aug. 24, until Aug. 30, wherein customers can get freebies worth up to SRP of P3,490. For more information on OPPO’s products and activities, visit its social media accounts.

STAY CONNECTED WHEREVER YOU ARE

By Lou Hernandez SAMSUNG recently launched two new products— the Galaxy Note9 and the Galaxy Watch—that are expected to fit right into today’s modern lifestyle at the Marriot Hotel in Pasay City.

Galaxy Note9

Galaxy Note9, its newest flagship smartphone from the Galaxy Note Series, has as its defining feature, the S Pen. Now powered by Bluetooth, the S Pen connects instantly with the Galaxy Note9 within a 10-meter radius, eliminating the need to switch Bluetooth on and off.

With just few clicks, one can make business pitches, activate applications, and browse through photos.

Multitaskers can appreciate the device’s 10 -nanometer Application processor, a tiny but powerful chipset that allows seamless use of multiple applications when one does a bevy of activities like send emails, edit presentations, and stream content while reducing battery consumption.

It is also the first smartphone with a base capacity of 128GB (with a suggested retail price of P55,990), but also comes with a 512GB variant that allow expandable memory. These also utilize Samsung Knox, Samsung’s mobile security platform, to secure important documents and large files.

It also has the Dual Aperture Camera that can take low-light photos with its F1.5 and F2.4 lens aperture. This intelligent camera outsmarts the human eye by capturing Super Slow-Mo videos at 960 frames per second, four times slower than normal slow motion.

It is also equipped with Real Time Intelligence that can provide more information about objects in its field of vision as well as Auto Scene Recognition, which can detect up to twenty unique scenes and automatically optimize the photo, depending on the conditions.

Samsung’s Galaxy Note9 sports 6.4” Super AMOLED Infinity Display and comes in Ocean Blue with a Pearl Yellow S Pen (128GB & 512GB), Midnight Black, (128GB), and Metallic Copper (128GB). A superb and surround sound experience is ensured through stereo speakers

tuned by AKG and powered by Dolby Atmos.

Galaxy Watch

Samsung also introduced the new Samsung Galaxy Watch, which offers a true holistic health experience.

Its’ new stress management tracker automatically detects high levels of stress and offers breathing exercises to help keep users centered and focused. A new and advanced sleep tracker monitors all levels of sleep, including REM cycles, to adjust sleeping habits and allow the user to get adequate rest.

To complete the health features, the watch has 21 new indoor exercises, tracking a total of 39 workouts that allow consumers to customize and change up their routines.

On the nutrition side. It has intuitive calorie tracking and personalized alerts.

With the use of EBixby Vision on their Galaxy device, one can take a photo of each meal and instantly log nutritional information in Samsung Health and on Galaxy Watch for better calorie management.

“The new Galaxy Watch was designed for all lifestyles to help meet consumer needs, such as more efficient battery life to stay connected longer, and better wellness tracking to help users maintain their goals—we are delivering them with connected experiences, all at the touch of a wrist,” said DJ Koh, President and CEO of IT & Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics.

LENOVO, a global leader in PCs and smart devices development, is launching two new laptops designed to meet the demands of the ‘modern avid gamers’.

“Through our market research, we have discovered that there is a subset of gamers being ignored— the modern avid gamers. Most of these are millennials who carried their enthusiasm to adulthood but find it hard to continue due to their responsibilities at work, family, and social life. They are looking for a gaming PC that lets them partake in their passion but in a way that fits their lifestyle and time constraints.

Our newest gaming machines are designed to meet their needs—a powerful, portable device with a stylish and minimalist exterior,” said Michael Ngan, Country General Manager of Lenovo Philippines.

The new devices, namely, the Lenovo Legion Y530 and the IdeaPad 330 are built for more than just gaming. Both can handle programs for work or study easily, but also allows you to watch movies and TV series, it supports digital performance like video, animation, and graphics editing.

The new devices, namely, the Lenovo Legion Y530 and the IdeaPad 330 are built for more than just gaming. Both can handle programs for work or study easily, but also allows you to

watch movies and TV series, it supports digital performance like video, animation, and graphics editing.

The new Lenovo Legion laptops are built for today’s on-thego gamers who travel light. The Lenovo Legion Y530 Laptop has a subtle but compelling top cover texture that radiates out from the “O” in its Legion emblem. The laptop is fully equipped with up to NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1050 Ti GPUs, up to the latest 8th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors and Windows® 10.

With up to 16GB DDR4 2666MHz memory and up to 256GB M.2 PCIe SSD or 2TB HDD storage, it can fulfill both powering and storage demands. Heat is no longer a bother to gamers as the new Legion Y530 features improved thermal layout with dual fan design and quad-vent cooling for increased airflow.

Users can enjoy clear and crisp audio with its Dolby Audio™ Premium, which can dynamically adjust audio to deliver home theatre quality in a virtual surround sound experience. The Legion Y530 comes in at only 24 mm thin and 5.1 lbs. light. Its bezels are 62% thinner compared to previous gaming laptops, making it more portable and easy to carry.

The device is available in Onyx Black with backlit keyboards.

VIVO, SMART FORGE PACT FOR UNLIMITED DATA PLAN GLOBAL smartphone brand Vivo and PLDT Enterprise, the B2B arm of the country’s leading ICT and digital services provider, together with top wireless brand, Smart Communications Inc., seal a strong partnership for an exciting new offer: a non-stop data bundle with Vivo’s latest pride, the X21.

The partnership was established last Aug. 16, in Makati City. Vivo executive Annie Lim, Vice President for PR Strategy and Partnerships, represented the smartphone brand. Representing PLDT Enterprise on the other hand was Smart AVP & Head for Enterprise Wireless Solutions Chet Alviz.

The Vivo X21 is the first in the world to implement the In-Display Fingerprint Scanning Technology, the center of topic during the Mobile World Congress and Global Stage for Innovation CES events.

Through this strategic partnership with Smart, Vivo aims to expand and cater to the Filipino corporate market.

Smart will bundle the X21 with the Data on the Go Plan 2000, which includes unlimited calls to Smart and non-stop surf—allowing corporate clients to enjoy the X21's high-end specifications for a low monthly amortization of 400 pesos for 24 months. The Vivo X21 makes for a perfect business

companion. The Vivo X21's 6.28" Super AMOLED display is the ideal device for all professionals in the business and corporate world as it can aid users in various business-related functions.

From attending critical business online conferences to performing business research on multiple websites, the Vivo X21 delivers the goods more than ever especially as it comes with the Smart’s non-stop surf bundle.

Smart is the exclusive operator partner of Vivo for this exciting X21 Project.

The offer became available to all corporate partners of PLDT and Smart by Aug. 15.

Vivo executive Annie Lim, Vice President for PR Strategy and Partnerships, represented the smartphone brand. Representing PLDT Enterprise was Smart AVP and head for Enterprise Wireless Solutions Chet Alviz.

Destinations D1

sunday, august 19, 2018

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

hello Malaysia, hello world

@MStandardLIFE

4 things to do

in Melbourne With its vibrant culture and interesting heritage, Melbourne certainly deserves a spot in everyone’s travel bucket lists. this Australian city wouldn’t be named “most livable city in the world” for seven years for nothing. here are four things one can do to make the most of their vacation in Melbourne:

thai restaurant Chin Chin serves sumptuous cuisine with a dash of cool vibe.

Photo from visitvictoria.com

the pink-domed Putra Mosque and the green-domed Perdana Putra.

M

y LASt trip to this Asean neighbor was more than 30 years ago and, ever since it adopted its very popular “truly Asia” tourism tagline, mercury rising i have always wanted to go

By BoB zozoBrado back and check it out, to see how it has progressed and how it supports its claim of being the best representation of our region.

Malaysia’s most popular landmark, the Petronas towers.

the Ministry of Finance and its giant flags greet visitors to Putrajaya.

however, every time i planned the trip, something more important always came up, requiring me to shelve the travel for another day. Now that i am retired from my day job, i finally found the time to make that long overdue visit. So, with my eldest son as my traveling companion, i flew on “the heart of the Filipino” (our national carrier’s bold tag) and spent a weekend in Kuala Lumpur.

Covering a massive area of 39 square miles, which was formerly agricultural land, the Kuala Lumpur international Airport, commonly referred to as KLiA, opened 20 years ago. it has parking bays for 120 aircraft at any given time, and can handle as many as 100 million passengers yearly. it has three parallel runways and management has plans of adding two more. it has two main terminals, each with two satellites. these impressive figures are definitely in line with the facility’s tagline—“KLiA, Next Gen hub, the New Way to the World.”

Located in Selangor, the ultramodern KLiA is 45 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur, a good 45-minute drive through wide, clean, and well-maintained highways. Armed with the curiosity to discover what makes “Malaysia...truly Asia,” i didn’t realize when i landed at this futuristic mega-structure that it would be a teaser of what i would later see in Kuala Lumpur.

My home for the weekend was the swanky Shangri-La hotel Kuala Lumpur, right in the middle of town. Of course, after freshening up, my son and i immediately engaged the hotel concierge for information and asked him, what

i learned later, the number one question guests ask: how far is the Petronas towers?

Of course, the concierge had a ready reply, “it’s just a seven-minute walk from the hotel!” Eager to take the perfect photo-op with the country’s tallest structure, my son and i immediately headed toward the given direction and, sure enough, on the 7th minute, we found ourselves right on the same block as that of the twin towers.

But, to be able to snap the much coveted souvenir photos tourists want, we still had to walk around the humongous structure to get to the front of it, then walk again for what seemed like another kilometer, alongside a beautiful longitudinal reflecting pool, then walk down several steps more, for the perfect souvenir photo of the city’s most popular landmark. the wide open park was teeming with tourists, trying to beat each other to the perfect spot which would show the famous attraction in the background. the cacophony of different languages, the calls of ambulant vendors selling all kinds of stuff, and the shrieks of those who were there just to have fun, reminded me of Luneta Park on Christmas Day, but without the garbage and neglect of the surroundings. the following day, my son and i took a tour of the city and we were fascinated by all shapes and sizes of modern architecture. in Turn to D2

Explore its diverse food scene

One of the best things about Melbourne is the abundance of gourmet restaurants and cheap eats. it is home to laneways and arcades lined with trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants that serve all kinds of cuisine to satisfy your cravings. So whether you’re looking for a yummy plate of pasta, a cup of great-tasting coffee, or even a delicious glass of wine, the streets of Melbourne offer everything you want at any time of day.

Colorful street art along hosier Lane.

Photo walk along the streets filled with art

Melbourne also prides itself with a thriving art scene that is seen even on the streets. Alleyways and walls decorated with graffiti and underground art galleries have become a must-see for tourists. to get a glimpse of some of Melbourne’s best street art, make your way to hosier Lane, Flinders Court, Union Lane, and Russell Place.

Melbourne has a number of clubs and live music venues. Photo from visitvictoria.com

Enjoy events and festivals

With various theaters, museums, and live music venues, Melbourne is easily Australia’s cultural hub. the city is always buzzing with different activities that cater to visitors’ interests—from fashion and art, to film and music, and even sports. if you’re a tennis fan, you can catch the Australian Open in January and watch your favorite athletes in action.

Turn to D2

RewaRding meetings at new woRld makati PREMiER hotel New World Makati rewards guests holding their meetings in its venues. those availing of the hotel’s business, executive, or premier meeting packages will receive a 10 percent discount or add a person free of charge for every group of 10.

Further, those who will book may receive an overnight stay with breakfast for two persons, a sumptuous buffet at

Café 1228, or an hour of cocktail for up to 50 persons, depending on the minimum qualifying charge. this offer is available until September.

Call (02) 811-6888 ext. 3280 for inquiries and reservations.

Premier hotel New World Makati offers rewards to guests booking its meeting venues today until September.

destinations

D2

sunday, august 19, 2018 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

hello...

From D1

Where iza CalzaDo FounD healing

fact, we extended our tour to Putrajaya to the south, which is approximately 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur. this city is Malaysia’s seat of government, with all the government buildings displaying late 20thcentury architecture. as we entered the city through the Putrajaya Bridge, which has a unique, futuristic design, we could see right away the massive Ministry of Finance, with its front pillars displaying giantsized Malaysian flags. also at a distance, we saw the pink dome of the supersized Putra Mosque which is made of pink-colored granite. and, of course, the city’s piece de resistance is the beautiful Perdana Putra, the Prime Minister’s office complex, easily recognizable with its green dome.

(More of this city in a future column.)

YOUR weekend CHUCkLe “Mom, how come I still didn’t get my period? I’m already 19 and Janet got hers when she was just 13!”

“Listen to me, Brian, you’re nOt getting a period ever!”

although I was a little disappointed I didn’t see much of native Malaysian colors—outfits, indigenous architecture, lifestyle designs, etc., I was elated to see how this country has kept up with the surge of modernization in the rest of the world. Just as we here in the Philippines want to show the world that we are in step with progressive modernism, I’m sure the Malaysians, who are several steps ahead of us in this aspect, take even greater pride as they cheerfully shout out, “Hello World!”

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com.

4Fromthings...

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shop the best local and international finds at Myer, australia's largest department store.

Photo from visitvictoria.com

Go on a shopping spree

What’s a trip out of the country without splurging on the best fashion items and pasalubongs for your loved ones? Melbourne is one of the cities where you can shop until you drop with the abundance of shopping centers and thrift stores where you can purchase items on a bargain. If you’re the adventurous type, you can discover hidden gems in the boutiques and outlets you can find tucked in the inner streets.

More Filipinos can explore Victoria’s state capital as low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific launched on aug. 14 its new direct flights between Manila and Melbourne.

Cebu Pacific flies to Melbourne three times a week: tuesday, thursday, and saturday to bring more local travelers to the land of many wonders.

Go to cebupacificair.com for more information.

B

EFORE Iza Calzado became the elegant, aspirational woman that she is today, she, like many women, has dealt with body insecurities brought about by unrealistic beauty standards framed by media and society.

It took her a while to realize that the appreciation and being comfortable in one’s self outweighs everything else. Calzado found help from a wellness resort in Lipa, Batangas.

“I have heard about the Farm since I was new in show business. the big stars would visit and I always wanted to go,” shared the 36-year-old actress. the Farm at san Benito is a five-star holistic medical wellness resort in Lipa, a 90-minute drive south of Manila. It rests on 48 hectares of lush green jungle, with a stunning view of the mountains and pure and fresh air with clear and positive lifegiving energy radiating around the property.

Calzado finally went in 2011 when she was trying to heal a broken heart. “the first time was very emotional. My three days of stay really helped me at that time. the place became my utopia! Every time I go there, it never loses its effect on me.

I am instantly centered and happy,” she shared.

Her frequent visits to the Farm taught her even more. “during my stay, countless realizations and learnings came upon me, but if there is one thing that I will remember—having a healthy body is significant in living a life filled with joy. My visit at the Farm taught me that being healthy should be the top priority,” shared Calzado. she emphasized, “getting thin is just a side effect. your size doesn’t always equate to your overall health.” the Farm offers health optimization programs that help in the holistic formation of an individual, from medically-guided detox procedures,

SANCTUARY. the Farm at san Benito is a holistic wellness resort in Lipa, Batangas. It offers health optimization programs such as its newest hydrotherapy treatments at the acqua sanctuary.

Iza Calzado receives healing treatment from dr. Marian alonzo.

weight management, diabetes prevention, heart health, pain management to mental health.

Calzado attests to the healing effect the Farm does to a person’s body, mind, and spirit. “the doctors at the Holistic sanctuary are well trained in integrative medicine. the programs are personalized, and it caters to unique individual needs. I swear by the healing that dr. Marian alonzo can do for your mind, body, and soul,” she said. she continued, “the spa treatments make you feel so relaxed and pampered. I feel that the toxins are flushed out my system whenever I undergo Skin Kayud and Hilot Haplos.”

Calzado said she’s “a big fan” of the center’s Colema treatment, a colon hydrotherapy treatment that uses organic coffee.

Finally, Calzado said, “I recommend the Farm to anyone in need of healing. I initially visited the place to heal a broken heart! It’s crucial for us to prioritize our inner self and peace because truly, we only have one body and one life.”

The Farm has an ongoing promo of P10,000++ per night for two adults and two kids, valid Sunday to Thursday until Sept. 30. Call (02) 884-8074 or email info@thefarm.com.ph for more information.

Iza Calzado, like many women, has dealt with body insecurities, but she has since then found healing from a wellness resort.

Dining with a view in harbour City

the 270-degree Observatory deck on the rooftop of Harbour City’s new Ocean terminal extension building, offers a 270-degree panoramic view of Victoria Harbour, overlooking the entire Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

tsIM sHa tsui’s largest and most diverse shopping mall, Harbour City, recently opened its Ocean terminal deck to the public, allowing diners to enjoy their meals with a side of 270-degree panoramic view of Victoria Harbour.

Visitors can enjoy the best angle of Hong Kong’s harbor, sunset, and cityscapes, while savoring delicious global cuisines from several al fresco dining choices. tsukada nojo serves superb Japanese cuisine, notably its signature Bijin Nabe (beauty hot pot). ana ten is an upscale restaurant offering contemporary Japanese culinary delights. Meanwhile, famous Milan restaurant Paper Moon delights

with its authentic, home-style Italian cuisine and original recipes. a nu Retrouvez-vous boasts a French fine dining experience that has been Michelin-starred for six consecutive years in Japan since 2011.

Chinese cuisines are also available. Xi He ya yuan from Beijing serves traditional Chinese cuisine as well as new Chinese Fusion, but its menu’s star is the XIHE Beijing duck. HEXa, on the other hand, reimagines authentic Cantonese dishes with an innovative twist, using only the finest local and imported produce. Fu Rong offers an unforgettable menu of delightfully spicy Chengdu delicacies, uniquely more delicate and fragrant than the typical sichuan flavors. the Ocean terminal deck is also a venue for live outdoor performances and various events, like the wine tasting series during Hong Kong’s Wine and dine festival, as well as major beauty events. It houses two outdoor event spaces: a natural lawn where visitors can freely sit and walk around, and a grandstand, which can accommodate up to 200 people.

Entertainment

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018

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Nickie Wang, Issue Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

HOW RISING STAR

KATE VALDEZ REDEFINES FILIPINA BEAUTY

BLOSSOMING. Young actress Kate Valdez wants to inspire young women to be comfortable in their own skin.

By Clay Moreno

A

RMED with her charismatic eyes, morena skin and an alluring face that’s impossible to overlook, Kate Valdez embodies the true Filipina beauty.

Alessandra de Rossi and Empoy Marquez

ALEMPOY, JOSHLIA ON KBO A DOUBLE serving of bittersweet love stories await Filipino homes this weekend as Alessandra de Rossi and Empoy Marquez’s Kita Kita and Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia’s Love You to the Stars and Back air on ABS-CBN TVplus’ KBO today.

Kita Kita is an uncommon tale of love between a woman (Alessandra as Lea) suffering from heartbreak and a man (Empoy as Tonyo) who devotes what would be the remainder of his life to giving back to the kindness shown to him. Audiences have raved about the movie as it delivered a heavy emotional punch with its characters’ acceptance, kindness, and selflessness.

Meanwhile before the airing of JoshLia’s debut TV series, Ngayon at Kailaman, their characters as Mika (Julia) and Caloy (Joshua) in Love You to the Stars and Back will take the viewers to a road trip full of adventures and misadventures – and lessons that usually take a lifetime for other people to learn.

Joining the line-up this week are Unmarried Wife, Squad Goals, and Elemento.

You may register using any prepaid or postpaid SIM. For prepaid, just load up (Globe, TM, Smart, Sun, TNT) with P30; press the green / INFO button on your TVplus box remote to get your box ID; then text KBO30 AUG18<TVplus box ID> to 2366.

Xian Lim plays the lead in sexy film 'Sin Island.'

AN INTRIGUING ROMANCE THRILLER ON CINEMA ONE

She came to prominence with her titular role as Sang’gre Mira in GMA’s top-rating fantasy Encantadia in 2016, and has since then been making a name for herself.

The fresh-faced actress started modeling while still in grade school and subsequently joined amateur beauty pageants. She discovered her knack for acting when she started joining school plays.

Being in a society which favored celebrities and models with fairer skin, Kate confessed she struggled with being confident. The pressures of the industry led her to try to change herself by using products to achieve whiter skin until she learned how to embrace her brown skin and love herself for who she really is.

As she turns 18 and becomes a full-fledged lady on Aug. 21, the pretty GMA Artist Center star seeks to inspire her fellow morena women to recognize their beauty beneath their physical appearances.

She affirms this in having the right attitude that brings out her likewise beautiful personality, “I realized that the color of your skin doesn’t define beauty, it’s what inside you, your character. Just be who you are. Most importantly, it’s your confidence and your love for yourself.”

Kate also revealed she is looking forward to being the woman she’s always wanted to be. As a step, she is learning to make wiser decisions for herself.

“I can be indecisive at times. I become conscious and I worry when I decide on my own.

Right now, I let my mom to make decisions for myself na alam niyang makabubuti rin sa akin para natututo ako. This is how I become a mature and a confident woman,” she related.

Starring in GMA Network’s newest primetime series Onanay, Kate portrays the bida-kontrabida role of Natalie—a spoiled, arrogant girl who thinks highly of herself. She is ashamed of her

mother Onay’s physical appearance, which is why she often takes out her frustration and anger on her.

“Until now, I still can’t believe that I’d be able to act and do a scene with people I used to watch on TV. It feels surreal. The pressure is there but I try my best na wag magpadala doon. I use it as a motivation to do my best. My co-stars are also a huge help,” Kate talked about being part of the show.

Unlike her fierce persona on screen, the young actress shared she is just a simple girl with big dreams ahead of her. She aspires to do more modeling stints and to further hone her craft as a versatile performer. With her striking features and innate intelligence, it is no doubt that Kate also wants to become a beauty queen in the future.

As she blooms into her own, Kate is more than ready to exceed the boundaries one strike at a time.

THE lives of Coleen Garcia, Nathalie Hart, and Xian Lim entangle as they fight for love in Sin Island premiering on Cinema One this evening at 7:00 o’clock.

The intriguing romance thriller centers on David (Xian), successful photographer, and Kanika (Coleen), a flight attendant. The couple has the perfect marriage until the former hits a snag in his career and catches his beloved wife in an affair with one of her colleagues.

David then flees to the exotic Sinilaban Island where he meets and engages in an affair with charismatic fashion designer Tasha (Nathalie).

Despite the couple’s mistakes, Kanika is willing to redeem their once-perfect relationship, but Tasha is not one to let go. Will husband and wife recover from their errors or is it time for a new flame to take over?

Sin Island, directed by Gino M. Santos, first screened in cinemas as a rare Valentine’s offering of Star Cinema. The film’s cast also includes TJ Trinidad, Bernard Palanca, Dominic Ochoa, Lito Pimentel, Desiree del Valle, Nikki Valdez, Thou Reyes, and McCoy de Leon.

Witness the intense scenes in Sin Island” on Cinema One’s Blockbuster Sunday. Cinema One is available on SKYcable Channel 56, SKYdirect Channel 19, Destiny Cable Analog 37 and Digital 56.

ENCHONG DEE EMBARKS ON EXTREME ADVENTURE IN HONG KONG FILIPINO actor, model and swimmer Enchong Dee landed in Hong Kong recently for the filming of Extreme Ends. This new reality TV series, created by action entertainment TV channel KIX, showcases the “extreme” opposite sides of Hong Kong.

Enchong is one of four celebrities from Southeast Asia featured in the four-episode reality series. He brings along his good friend and actress, Ria Atayde, to explore the amazing contrasts of Hong Kong. As each other’s favorite adventure buddy, they are ready to push their boundaries in this exciting experience.

Enchong first came to prominence after scoring the lead role in the hit TV drama Katorse in 2009. His great acting in several supporting roles led to his quick rise to fame. In 2014, he started his music career and released his first single, “Chinito Problems.” He has been nominated for several of his

performances in TV shows and movies, and has already won 13 awards at the age of 29. Currently, he is starring in another hit TV series called Blood Sisters.

Ria, on the other hand, is a Filipino actress and began her career in 2015.

She is the daughter of actress, Sylvia Sanchez, and the sister of actor, Arjo Atayde. Having grown up in showbiz, it was only natural for Ria to eventually appear on TV shows and movies.

“I’m so excited to join KIX’s Extreme Ends. I have no idea what they have planned, but I’m ready to push my boundaries on this trip. I cannot wait to go on this eye-opening experience and explore the unknown sides of Hong Kong with Ria.” said Enchong.

Extreme Ends is a reality show featuring four celebrities and their special guests experiencing the many diverse sides of Hong Kong. In this original series, viewers get an entertaining glimpse into the relationship between the

celebrities and their guests. At the same time, viewers will get to see new sides of Hong Kong they have never seen before. Each episode will feature a theme of extreme opposites, such as “fast vs. slow” or “high vs low”. These themes will showcase the fascinating contrasts, non-stop intensity and distinctively trendy attributes of Hong Kong.

Extreme Ends is produced by KIX’s parent company Celestial Tiger Entertainment, operator of the largest bouquet of pan-Asian channels dedicated to Asian entertainment. The show is supported by Hong Kong Tourism Board and Harbour City. Extreme Ends will air first and exclusively on KIX in October.

In the Philippines, KIX is one of the Top 20 Pay TV channels in the country and the #1 regional English general entertainment channel in 2018-yearto-date.

Enchong Dee has been tapped by KIX, a top regional English general entertainment channel, to explore Hong Kong and take viewers for the ride.

D4

sunday, august 19, 2018

Desiree Carlos, Editor

Pets

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

You cAn sAve A life now pet tales

By desiree carlos

I

F YOU spay or neuter your pets, you can help control animal population and subsequently, lessen the number of abandoned, stray animals.

When you have your dogs or cats spayed, they will not reproduce .

Thousands of pups and kittens --90 per cent of whom will end up on the streets or in pounds-- will not be born. You will save thousands of lives when you have dogs or cats spayed or neutered.

In Baguio, city veterinarian Dr. Bridget Piok noted that dog population has been increasing yearly. A survey conducted by the City Veterinarian Office (CVO) for the year 2017 recorded more or less 60,000 dogs compared to 50,000 in 2016.

The Baguio City Pound, meanwhile, recorded a total of 2,005 impounded dogs in 2017. Most dogs were claimed by the owners and 106 dogs were brought home through adoption. But there are still dogs in the pound waiting to be adopted.

Dr. Piok said the CVO launched their free spay and neuter program in the last quarter of 2017 to address the increasing dog population. This program will be included in their annual plan and budget for the succeeding years.

But the free spay and neuter program can accommodate only 80 dogs and cats every quarter due to budget constraints.

This means only a maximum of 320 dogs/cats can be spayed or

To help control animal population in the country, the Baguio City Veterinary Office, Save ALL Inc. and CAPA Inc. joined hands to have 120 dogs and cats spayed or neutered. Thank you to licensed vets (surgeons) from Baguio and Benguet: Dr. Anabelle Capse, Dr. Peter Canggat, Dr. Wilson Malingan, Dr. Cecille Capuyan, Dr. Gladys Bantog, Dr. Mark Anthony Padao, Dr. Jordan Bayudang, Dr. Mary Jane Laus, Dr. Kelvin John Gavino,Dr. Denver Ayongan, and Dr. Joy Bang-asan. Thank you to Shirly hughes (foreground) and sister Ashley Sebusa of Dogs Mountain Sanctuary for hosting Save ALL admins in their home.

neutered within the year. This number is not enough given the 60,000 recorded dogs in the city in 2017.

To spay and neuter more dogs and cats, the CVO decided to team up with animal welfare groups Save ALL Inc. - Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL) and Cordillera Animal Protection Advocates Inc. (CAPA) to conduct more free spay and neuter in the city.

In this first joint effort, 120 dogs and cats were targeted as beneficiaries.

Dr. Piok stressed: “We believe that education on responsible pet ownership among pet parents is the best solution to totally minimize and eventually achieve a zero impounded dog at the dog pound.”

And working with animal welfare groups helps, she said.

Michael Padiclas, CAPA vice president, said his group has been concerned with the increasing number of stray dogs and cats. They have been rescuing injured and sick dogs and

cats, having them treated and looking for adopters and fosters for them.

Thus, CAPA worked on a tripartite memorandum of agreement with the CVO and Save ALL. Save ALL, on the other hand, has held 11 free spay and neuter programs which benefitted more than 200 dogs and cats. It has also rescued around 415 dogs and cats in the past four years.

Save ALL has always stressed that spaying and neutering and responsible pet ownership are the best solutions to prevent the increase in animal abuse cases in the country.

The organizers are grateful to Baguio City Mayor Mauricio G. Domoganfor supporting the project.

During the two-day free spay and neuter program in Baguio City on Aug. 15 and 16, eight veterinarians from the Baguio City vet office, the Benguet vet office, and the Department of Agriculture (DA) performed the procedure.

The doctors who volunteered are Dr. Anabelle Apse (from the capitol), Dr. Peter Canggat Jr. (capitol), Dr. Wilson Malingan (city vet), Dr. Cecile Capuyan (DA Livestock division), Dr. Gladys Bantog (city vet), Dr. Mark Anthony Padao (LGU La Trinindad), Dr. Jordan Bayudang (BAI), and Dr. Mary Jane Laus (city vet) The Baguio CVO provided the venue and prepared the needed medical equipment and surgical tools for the entire duration of the project. It also ensured that all the necessary steps before, during and after the surgical procedures were complied with.

CAPA coordinated with agencies such as the DA for the needed medical equipment/tools and veterinarians, the Benguet Provincial Veterinary Office for volunteer veterinarians and the Benguet State University- Department of Veterinary Medicine for volunteer vets and clinical assistance It also conducted the pre-screening and pre-registration of pets “to remind the owners of the preoperative preparations and post-surgery care and informed the owners of their scheduled date and time, “ Padiclas said.

Save ALL provided medicine for the procedure.

Save ALL is grateful for the assistance of Doc Antony Prado Basa of Sha Sha/West Avenue Veterinary Clinic, Quezon City to and for the medicine and medical supplies from Jael Bermejo elegarle, Goldie Ngo Mayanne Naguit Dee, and another rmember of Save ALL. The organizers are also grateful to Topbreed, Juris Fortun, racje Construction, and Tiongsan harison for helping with medical supplies and food for the volunteers.

To help Save ALL conduct more free spay and neuter programs, please contact Save ALL admins Cynthia Barcial Santos and Day Carlos if you can donate medicine and medical supplies.

Pets who have undergone surgery are brought to the recovery room where they are monitored.

MY furrY Bestie

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

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

BUTTerBALL is a one-year-old male asong Pinor or aspin who was given to Bea Junsay by her aunt.

Bea loves Butterball very much.

She says: “Butterball is the one who I go home to everyday after school.

We sleep in the same couch and he would just squeeze himself by my side. he also wakes me up at 5 in the morning because he want to go outside our room and pee. he doesn't bark, but he cries and whines, wags his tail very excitedly, eats a lot of rice, and farts most of the time. he always follows us around and makes sure he is there wherever we go. I love him for being protective.”

Bea adds: “he is important to me because he's always been there by my side even though I only get to see him twice or thrice a week. his love never falters. he is always at the door, waiting and peeking to see if it is me who is coming home.”

Cats and dogs were spayed or neutered so that they will no longer reproduce.

responsible owners wait for their pets' turn to be spayed or neutered.

A cat is shaved prior to surgery.

#Adoptdontshop TheIr owner’s house in Manila was to be any disease. demolished. There were around six of Sam and Kulet tested positive for erlichthem dogs in that place ia and were treated for a they called home for about month. a year.

Today (three years later), Sam and Kulet (curly hair) Sam and Kulet are “makuand their other fursiblings lit,” plays around in the garhad nowhere to go. den and loves to hug and Their owner did not want kiss humans, and get hugs them to end up on the and kisses back. streets, thus, she asked Save Save ALL has been Animals of Love and Light looking for an adopter for (Save ALL) to look for an these two dogs who are adopter for Sam and Kulet healthy, spayed/neutered who are bonded or can not so they will not reprobe separated. duce, and have complete A month passed, then vaccines. another. Then the house If you can treat them was to be demolished in a as pets and members of few days. your family, not as guard Save ALL decided to get dogs because they are so the two sweet, cute dogs friendly, please contact and had them checked at Save ALL admins Maricel the clinic. Save ALL does Mondejar, Joanne Zamora not bring new dogs diand Julie rodriguez in the rectly to the foster home to ensure the group page of Save ALL or through their other healthy dogs are not infected with Facebook accounts.

Owners register their pets and sign a waiver form at the receiving area. CAPA Inc. led by founder Cherrybeth Batuna and vice president Michael Padiclas conducted a pre-registration of pets to ensure the pets to be spayed/ neutered are healthy and vaccinated. The group also informed owners that pets should undergo an eight-hour fasting prior to surgery and oriented them on post-surgery care. Save ALL Inc. ensured the pets will be given an injectable antibiotic which is good for three days to prevent infection after surgery. The group did not scrimp on meds for the welfare of the animals and ensured the pets will be given the most expensive anesthesia, and this was not diluted with another medicine just to lessen cost. The two animal welfare groups believe that if one were to help animals, one must give them the best.

BUChI is the latest furball of Denise Concepcion and her family Denies shares: “Buchi is a twomonth old shih tzu puppy who is really playful. he'll pull and chew but he'll always run to you when called. he runs a lot and sleeps a lot too. Despite being trampled by bigger furbabies, he will always come back and play with them. he also loves cuddling up to people and find comfort sleeping in someone's lap.”

How to take care of a rescued or abandoned kitten Part 2

By Mitch Canlas-Cordova GUIDeLINeS on feeding a kitten. *1-3 days old: 1.5-2.5 ml of milk every 2 hours *4-7 days old: 5 ml of milk, 10- 12 times a day *6-10 days: 5 - 7.5 ml of milk, 10 times a day *11-14 days: 10 - 12.5 ml of milk every 3 hours *15-21 days: 10 ml, 8 times daily *21 days and beyond: 7.5 - 25 ml, 3 - 4 times daily, in addition to introducing wet (solid) food.

Note: You NeeD NOT follow the exact amount above per feeding. If you feel the kitten is full and prefers to sleep after consuming half of the recommended amount, then let the kitten sleep.

Do not store and use after. >If you are going to use a syringe, its best to get the 1cc/ml kind. remember to remove the needle. >When using a syringe, press the plunger slowly and gradually so as to give enough and not too much.

5. Stimulate the genitals to pee and poop.

This is very important: after every feeding or every 2 hours, stimulate, the genitals (to urinate) and anus (to poop). Kittens do not know how eliminate waste on their own during the first 2-3 weeks. If you will observe, the mama cat licks the genital area and the anus after feeding. how to stimulate: 1. Wet the cotton balls/ tissue or cloth with water.

2. Gently move damp cloth up and down the genital area until the kitten urinates.

3. Do the same thing with the anus. Gently rub the 4. To nurse a kitten, you can use a bottle or a syringe anus with a damp cloth or tissue until poop comes out. >If you will use a nursing bottle which can be bought in pet stores and poultry shops, cut the nipple in “x’ 6. It is also important to make the kitten burp. form.

After the feeding, hold the kitten over your shoulder >Test the drip before using it. Make sure the flow is and carefully rub his back until he burps. not too fast that it might down the kitten with milk.

About the author: Mitch Canlas-Cordova is the founder >Sterilize the bottle before and after feeding. of Furbabies TLC, a Facebook-based group which aims to >Prepare only enough formula per single feeding. help owners take better care of their pets.