Manila Standard - 2018 September 8 - Saturday

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Gov’t foils another bombing attempt CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao—Another bombing attempt in Mindanao has been foiled after government troops killed two suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in a firefight near a bridge linking North Cotabato and Maguindanao on Friday afternoon.

The slain were part of a group under BIFF Commander Esmael Abdulmalik alyas Abu

Torayfe, which was transporting three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) through the Kabacan River that would be detonated in Kabacan, North Cotabato.

Torayfe’s group was responsible for the twin bombings in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat that killed five people last week, Col. Alfredo del Rosario, commander of the Philippine Next page

VOL. XXXII • NO. 205 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

Peso drops close to P54 per $1 BSP eyes ‘strong action’ to temper depreciation

By Julito G. Rada

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HE peso on Friday flirted near the 54-per-dollar level but gained some strength at the close after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas expressed its readiness to take strong “immediate actions” to address excessive exchange rate volatility and temper accelerating inflation.

Get act together, economic team told

By Rio N. Araja AGRICULTURE officials and other members of the President’s economic team must agree on how best to address rising food prices, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said Friday.

“It is the duty of the state to feed its people and it is the strategy of this country to keep food cheap by lowering the cost of production. We have failed in most,” Salceda said in an interview on radio dzMM. Salceda, tasked by Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to draw up counter-inflation measures, said the Department of Agriculture should make up with the National Food Authority Council, which decides rice import policy.

Food prices rose by 8.5 percent in August, surpassing headline inflation of 6.4 percent, which was a nineyear high.

Salceda said there was no need to replace the economic managers, but they need to talk to each other. Next page

The peso gained seven centavos to close at 53.73 from 53.80 on Thursday.

It opened five centavos weaker at 53.85 and touched 53.975 at one point of the trading day before settling at 53.73 to the greenback. Total volume stood at $956.9 million, up from $911 million.

The 53.80 at the close on Thursday was nearly a 13-year low against the greenback since it hit 53.985 at the close on Dec. 7, 2005.

ING Bank Manila senior economist Joey Cuyegkeng said the peso drew support from the statement of BSP Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. that the regulator would take strong immediate action using the full range of instruments in its toolkit to respond to emerging threats to inflation and inflation expectations.

Espenilla said the actions would also address other threats to higher inflation such as excessive exchange rate volatility not consistent with the underlying macroeconomic fundamentals to ensure that inflation returns to its 2 to 4 percent target range.

Next page

Curry: To improve is to evolve SPORST A8

STRAINED QUEUES.

Hundreds of National Food Authority rice customers (above and left) line up for P27 per kilo at the Pasig City Public Market Friday, with NFA assuring the public the agency will continue to distribute its P27 and P32/kilogram rice in the markets to ensure that consumers will have alternative sources of low-priced rice, on the same day the peso drops to P54-to-$1 level in early trading, following the 9-year high inflation in August. Manny Palmero

Paolo, Sara’s husband sue Trillanes

By F. Pearl A. Gajunera, Vito Barcelo and Macon RamosAraneta

THE eldest son of President Rodrigo Duterte, Paolo Z. Duterte, has filed a libel case against Senator Antonio Trillanes IV before the Regional Trial Court Branch 11 in Davao City.

Duterte’s brother-in-law, lawyer Manases Carpio, also filed a separate but

similar case against Trillanes with the Office of the City Prosecutor in Davao on Thursday.

Both men previously filed a civil case against the senator related to the opposition senator’s accusations of their involvement in the smuggling of P6.4 billion worth of shabu in 2017.

The present complaint says Trillanes maliciously maligned him and the entire Next page

Duterte arrives today from Jordan visit

By Vito Barcelo PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte cut short his visit to Jordan by a day and will arrive today, Saturday, in Davao City, according to Special Assistant to the President Bong Go. Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said despite cutting shot his trip to Jordan, Duterte, who was originally scheduled to be back on Sunday morning, did not can-

cel any scheduled event.

In other developments: • Duterte has offered to send at least five battalions of Filipino soldiers to Jordan if the Middle Eastern country needed help to fight the Islamic militants in that country.

He made the offer when he met with King Abdullah of Jordan II during the signing of five agreements covering labor and investment, among other things. Next page

Sotto bars unruly crowd in Senate

Hopes fade for Japan quake survivors

By Macon Ramos-Araneta SENATOR Antonio Trillanes IV’s “unnecessary visitors” are barred from visiting him from Friday to Sunday, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said Friday.

“What is their business in the Senate when they know there is no work?”

Sotto said.

He said the Senate was closed on weekends and only the staff of senators were allowed to enter the premises.

“We have to turn off the air-conditioning at certain times and on weekends because it will bog down if they don’t.

We are just accommodating Senator Trillanes. I hope his supporters will not abuse our patience,” Sotto said.

“Don’t test my patience and leniency on the matter because I will not allow the Senate to be used for any Next page unruly plot.”

‘‘

He just needs probably enough sleep.

— Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra to reporters about Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, who has admitted to sleepless nights over President Rodrigo Duterte revoking his amnesty on rebellion charges a decade ago.

WORLD B3

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News

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

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DFA comes to aid of OFW in Kuwait who stabbed boss

By Vito Barcelo THE Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday the Philippine government is extending all possible assistance to a Filipino domestic in Kuwait who is being held by the authorities there for allegedly stabbing her employer.

The Philippine Embassy in Kuwait is assisting Ulambai Singgayan from Maguindanao, and is in touch with the Kuwaiti authorities investigating her case, the department said.

“Our Embassy in Kuwait continues to look after our kababayan and is coordinating with the authorities to ensure that her rights are protected,” Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Sarah Lou Arriola said.

“Singgayan and her family here in the Philippines have our assurance that the DFA will provide her with legal and other assistance that she may require,” she said.

Foreign Affairs said as soon as the embassy learned about the incident, it dispatched a team to the hospital where Singgayan was being treated for injuries inflicted on her by the members of her employer’s family.

Initial reports from the Philippine Embassy said Singgayan’s employer threatened to have her visa revoked and transfer her to another house where she would be killed.

She then allegedly stabbed her employer to defend herself who beat her up for still unknown reasons.

Chargé d’Affaires Charleson Hermosura said Singgayan suffered bruises in her face, chest and arms. An x-ray conducted in the hospital also showed internal bleeding in her abdomen.

Foreign Affairs said it was not immediately clear if Singgayan had been maltreated by her employer before the stabbing incident.

He said Singgayan, who was deployed to Kuwait as a household service worker in February 2017, was facing felony charges and was now under hospital arrest.

Duterte...

From A1 “If there is anything we can do, if you are short in your army, let me know,” Duterte said in a speech before businessmen.

“Two, three, four, five [battalions], I will send them to you. I will commit my government in the right side of history,” Duterte said.

• The Defense department thanked the Jordanian government for the two Bell AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters it gave to the Philippines, saying those would be a big help in the military’s ongoing campaign against internal security threats.

“The DND thanks the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for supporting the ongoing capability upgrade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Defense spokesman Arsenio Andolong told the Philippine News Agency on Friday.

Roque said Duterte had attended all his appointments earlier.

“No scheduled appointment was canceled.

One day shorter means one day less expense for the taxpayers,” Roque said.

Duterte and his entourage left Amman late Friday afternoon.

Roque brushed aside allegations that politics was behind Duterte’s decision to come home early.

Before Duterte left for Israel and Jordan, he signed a proclamation order voiding Senator Antonio Trillanes IV’s amnesty, which was granted by President Benigno Aquino III. With PNA

Gov’t...

From A1 Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade, said in text messages to reporters.

Three civilians were also wounded in the clash as the ISIS-inspired group exchanged fire with government forces at around 3 pm Friday.

One BIFF member, identified as Mohamid Kambilan, was arrested and was being interrogated at the Army base here.

Soldiers brought the injured civilians, who lived near the river bank of the encounter site, to the Kabacan hospital.

The encounter near Tunggol Bridge in Datu Montawal, Maguindanao was part of government forces’ pursuit of the ISIS-inspired elements after they received intelligence reports that the BIFF group were transporting the explosives through the Kabacan River.

The IEDs came from Sitio Kabasalan, Barangay Darampua, Sultan sa Barongis in Maguindanao and were intended for Kabacan town, Del Rosario said.

Ten armed men aboard a motorboat, led by a certain Gapang Sapal, shot at soldiers manning checkpoints at the approach of Tunggol Bridge and another group of soldiers from Bravo company of the 7th Infantry Battalion.

As the Armymen pursued the gunmen, another band of armed men engaged them in a 15-minute firefight that forced the closure of highway linking this province with Cotabato for over an hour, the colonel said.

Recovered at the site were two M-4 rifles, a Garand rifle, a cal. 45 pistol and several pieces of ammunition, Del Rosario said.

The Army colonel advised motorists to avoid traveling at night between Kabacan and Midsayap, North Cotabato, passing the towns of Pagalungan and Datu Montawal in Maguindanao.

DoJ eyes CA appeal for Tan shabu case

By Rey E. Requejo

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HE Justice department vowed Friday to petition the Court of Appeals to reverse the decision of a Valenzuela City Court dismissing the drug charges against nine people, including Chinese businessman Chen Julong, alias Richard Tan, and customs broker Mark Taguba in connection with the P6.4-billion shipment of illegal drugs last year.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said he had been informed that his department’s motion for reconsideration was denied.

He said his department will file a petition before the appellate court assailing the decision of the Valenzuela City Regional

Trial Court, Branch 284, dismissing the drug charges against Taguba and eight others.

“We will question the trial court’s ruling before a superior court [Court of Appeals].

We maintain that the transport of illegal drugs is a distinct offense from illegal im-

Peso...

From A1

Espenilla also said the Monetary Board might hold an emergency meeting ahead of its scheduled meeting on Sept.

27.

“The BSP is taking strong action now including the possibility of action similar to the Aug. 9 policy rate hike [of 50 basis points]. The recent actions and statements today by the BSP governor delivers strong support for the peso,” Cuyegkeng said.

Cuyegkeng said he expects the peso to exhibit strength in the fourth quarter on the back of the BSP’s expected actions and hawkish stance, strong capital inflows similar to the fourth quarter last year, and moderation of emerging market risks in the latter part of the year.

Espenilla also announced the reactivation of the Currency Risk Protection Program. First introduced in December 1997, the CRPP was a non-deliverable forward hedging facility which was aimed at alleviating demand pressures in the foreign exchange spot market from borrowers seeking to hedge their future foreign exchange exposures.

Under the facility, parties agree that, on maturity of the forward contract, only the net difference between the contracted forward rate and the spot rate shall be settled in pesos. The BSP will make the CRPP available to eligible borrowers through the commercial banks.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo remained optimistic of the current level of the peso, saying it could withstand the impact of the surging dollar.

He also cited other reasons for the peso’s weakness, such as the government’s settlement of its foreign debts and firms’

Get...

From A1 He again pushed for lower tariffs on meat, fish, vegetable and corn imports to stabilize food prices, saying cheaper imports would spur competition.

But former Agrarian Reform secretary Rafael Mariano threatened to lead a mass action of farmers and fishermen to dramatize their sentiments against rice imports, rising inflation and the lack of subsidies for the agricultural sector.

“Let this be a forewarning to Duterte— hungry people are angry people. He won’t know what hit him once the poor and hungry masses rise up and revolt,” he said.

He said the farmers from the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Amihan National Federation of Peasant Women, Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas, and Samahang Industriya ng Agrikul-

Paolo,...

From A1 Duterte family during a Sept. 8, 2017 radio interview with Leo Lastimosa of DYAB Cebu. Carpio is married to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte.

The former vice mayor also said the senator accused him of corruption and extortion involving Uber and other companies regulated by the Land Transportation and Franchising Board, the Road Board and the Department of Public Works and Highways.

These allegations were false, baseless and unfounded, Duterte said, and based on hearsay.

“Respondent’s accusation against my person was intended to malign, destroy and kill my good name and reputation because of my being the son of our President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” the affidavit reads.

There is also a pending civil case for damages.

Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said Friday the President would abide by the rule of law and wait for the court to issue a warrrant of arrest against Trillanes before arresting him.

He said the President called a meeting Thursday night in Jordan to consult members of his Cabinet on his decision to revoke Trillanes’ amnesty and to order his arrest on coup d’etat charges stemming from the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny and the 2007 Manila Peninsula Siege.

“He will allow the judicial process to proceed and he will await the issuance of the appropriate warrant of arrest if indeed there is a warrant to be issued before Senator Trillanes is arrested,” Roque said.

Roque also admitted that the President wanted a civilian court rather than a military court to decide on the issuance on an arrest warrant against Trillanes even it might take a longer time.

“To tell you the truth, I myself felt that we should ask the military court to issue a warrant of arrest, but the President

portation which ends at the customs area,” Guevarra told reporters in a text message.

He said the case of the illegal importation pending before the Manila City RTC would not be affect by the adverse ruling.

The Valenzuela City RTC denied the department’s motion for reconsideration due to its failure to raise new issues that would warrant a reversal of its April 23, 2018 ruling.

In his April 23, 2018 decision, Judge Arthur Melicor granted the motion to dismiss filed by Chinese businessman Chen Julong, as well as the motion to dismiss and recall the warrant of arrest filed

by Customs brokers Taguba and Teejay Marcellana.

Besides Taguba and Tan, the others ac-

prepayments of their foreign obligations.

“I think we have enough buffers that can support the peso against the US dollar,” Guinigundo said.

The August inflation rate was the fastest in more than nine years and surpassed estimates both from the government and private sector economists. It was also a lot faster than the 2.6 percent recorded a year ago.

This brought inflation in the first eight months to 4.73 percent, well above the government’s official target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year.

The peso closed 2017 at 49.93, weaker than the 49.72 at the end of 2016. It opened 2018 stronger at 49.81 on Jan. 3.

The peso’s all-time low was at 56.45 in August 2004.

Meanwhile, Moody’s Investors Service said Friday that the 6.8-percent growth target it earlier predicted for the Philippines this year might not be met because of the accelerating inflation.

In a report, Moody’s said faster inflation was a “prominent challenge” to the economy.

“We do expect higher inflation will remain for a couple more months,” Moody’s vice president and senior credit officer Christian de Guzman said, adding that monetary policy has been “especially proactive” and “somewhat effective” in helping the Bangko Sentral meet its targets.

Inflation rose to a nine-year high of 6.4 percent in August from 5.7 percent a month ago and 2.6 percent a year ago, driven mainly by higher prices of rice, meat, fish, vegetables and other food products.

The economy in the first half averaged just 6.3 percent, following the lower-than-expected 6 percent in the second quarter, slower than the 6.6 percent in the first quarter. The government earlier projected a 7 percent to 8 percent growth in the gross domestic product this year.

But Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, head of the

tura from Bicol and Central Luzon would flock to Manila in a protest caravan to protect local agriculture.

He said the agriculture sector has suffered “enough blows and losses due to economic and trade liberalization.”

“In fact, the slow agricultural growth has dragged down the entire economy for several years now,” he said.

He said the government must “defend and strengthen local agriculture, farmers and producers.”

“Importation is an unsuitable solution,” he said. “It’s a band-aid on gangrene.”

On Thursday, Benguet Gov. Crescencio Pacalso assured the public there was no shortage of vegetables from the highland province as a result of the successive monsoon rains that battered the area recently.

He pointed out that the rise in vegetable prices in Metro Manila is not at all caused by short supply from the province, the source of about 75 percent of vegetables

declined. He wants civilian courts. He really abides by the rule of law because as a former prosecutor, he knows the procedures,” Roque said.

“No warrant, no arrest, that’s the rule of law,” he said.

Duterte’s Proclamation 572 declares the amnesty given to Trillanes void from the start because he failed to meet two requirements—an official application for amnesty and an admission of guilt to the crimes charged.

Trillanes has insisted that he met both requirements.

Trillanes has been critical of the President ever since he turned down his request to become his running mate in the 2016 presidential elections.

“If the President is evil, how come he tried to convince the President to be his running mate in the 2016 elections?”

Roque said.

Trillanes on Friday said the Armed Forces of the Philippines will no longer blindly follow its commander-in-chief.

“The AFP is a very professional organization. They are no longer blindly following just like in the past. In this case, at least, they abide by the process,” Trillanes told reporters in a media briefing.

The opposition senator was reacting to the statement of the Department of National Defense and the AFP that they respect the judicial process and defer to the decision of the court on the matter of his arrest.

Trillanes also said the AFP no longer had jurisdiction over him as he has resigned from the military.

“I am no longer a member of Armed Forces. They no longer have jurisdiction over me effective 2007. That’s clear based on the processed documents. Now if they are going to abide by the judicial processes, then they should respect this order of their court martial,” he said.

He pointed out that his case before the court martial has already been dismissed and the AFP has already issued him a clearance.

Trillanes, who participated in at least two military uprisings during the

Economic Development Cluster of the Duterte Cabinet, said that inflation would moderate in the coming months once the immediate measures aimed to curb higher consumer prices were in place.

De Guzman added that with the way things are going, it would be “mathematically impossible” for the Philippines to meet its 6.8-percent growth target for the year, after the dismal second quarter performance.

De Guzman said Moody’s would be closely monitoring how the current political turmoil would affect the government’s ability to pursue more reforms.

The Philippines enjoys investment grade rating with Moody’s, the same with Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that Metro Manila posted the sharpest rise in retail prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages in August this year, compared with other areas in the country.

The average food and beverage prices in the National Capital Region rose 8.6 percent last August from year-ago figures.

This was a bit higher than the 8.4 percent rise in the average food and non-alcoholic beverage retail prices in areas outside NCR, the PSA noted.

Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday accused the President of using attacks on the opposition to divert public attention from the unmitigated rise in inflation and his government’s incompetence to deal with the problem.

“President Duterte’s persecution of [the political opposition] is a desperate attempt to divert public attention away from the negative effects of untamed inflation,” she said.

“Sorry, Mr. President, but it’s not working,” she said.

Sound economic policies, not an assault on democracy, would address inflation, she added. With Macon Ramos-Araneta and PNA

sold in Metro Manila.

Pacalso said the rising cost of highland vegetables sold in Metro Manila is more due to the difficulty of transporting the goods down to the central region because of road damage caused by the heavy monsoon rains and the middlemen.

In a press briefing here, the governor said the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council recorded that as of Sept. 3, Benguet has recorded agricultural damage of P73 million in 11 of its 13 municipalities.

“This is is only about 5 to 10 percent of the total production of Benguet,” Pacalso said.

From January to July this year, Benguet produced 669.97 metric tons of assorted highland vegetables. The province produced an average of 95.7 metric tons a month.

Pacalso said the damage in agriculture included high-value crops, rice, corn, and other products grown in Benguet.

Meanwhile, a group of sugar farmers said

Arroyo administration, has been staying at the Senate since Duterte voided his amnesty.

He admitted that Thursday night was particularly long for him as there was the possibility that he could have been arrested as he slept at his Senate office.

“I just changed clothes. It was a long night. We really have to be vigilant, we have to be prepared. Adrenaline will keep you awake,” he said.

Trillanes said he has already prepared some personal belongings, including toiletries for his possible arrest.

The Department of Justice on Friday asked another Makati City court that had also handled and dismissed a separate coup d’état charge against opposition Trillanes to order his arrest.

State prosecutors asked Judge Elmo Alameda of Makati City Regional Trial Court, Branch 150, to issue the warrant of arrest and hold departure order against Trillanes, in connection with his involvement in the 2007 Manila Peninsula Hotel siege.

On Tuesday, the DOJ also filed a motion before asking Makati RTC Branch 148 to issue an arrest warrant and HDO against Trillanes, in connection with his role in the 2003 Oakwood mutiny.

Trillanes has filed a petition before the Supreme Court, asking it to issue a temporary restraining order to stop his arrest, and to void the President’s proclamation revoking his amnesty.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra asked the public to refrain from expressing their opinions on the case as it was now pending before the Supreme Court.

“I respectfully ask everyone to please stop commenting on these issues already since it now pending before the Supreme Court. It’s better that we leave it to the Supreme Court to resolve that issue,” Guevarra said, in an ambush interview.

“We will all be cited in contempt of court if we continue to discuss this matter, these legal issues which are already pending before the Supreme Court,” he added.

cused include Li Guang Feng alias Manny Li; Dong Yi Shen Xi alias Kenneth Dong; import company owner Eirene Mae Tatad; customs broker Teejay Marcellana; Taiwanese businessmen Chen I-Min; Jhu Ming Jhun; and Chen Rong Huan.

Taguba and Marcellana also filed separate motions to dismiss, which were also granted by the court.

Melicor said the prosecution’s move “clearly bears the hallmarks of forum shopping” and “betray [their] intent to secure favorable judgment from different courts.”

Forum shopping happens when a case involving the same facts is filed in two separate courts in hopes that one of them will rule favorably.

the Sugar Regulatory Administration has failed to lower the retail price of sugar despite the importation of 200,000 metric tons of sugar in June.

The Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura chided the SRA over the manipulation of sugar prices.

John Milton Lozande, UMA secretary general, urged the government to investigate the price manipulation and to put a price cap on sugar in markets.

Instead of importing sugar, the government should be helping the sugar industry to improve, he said.

Also on Friday, police raided a warehouse in Marilao, Bulacan, where rice smuggled from China was allegedly stored.

Police said more than 10,000 sacks of rice were spotted in the warehouse when it was first visited on Thursday, but a raid at dawn on Friday produced only 3,000 sacks.

The Bureau of Customs has yet to confirm if the rice was smuggled. With PNA

Sotto...

From A1

Sotto said he expected Trillanes, who has opted to stay in the Senate since Tuesday after news of his impending arrest broke out following President Rodrigo Duterte’s revocation of his amnesty.

He said all senators had the responsibility to protect the institution above all.

“I was expecting them to help me preserve the integrity and sanctity of the institution and not abuse the hospitality of the Senate leadership,” Sotto said.

He said the tension in the Senate was already too much, “so let us not add to the tension.”

Sotto said he had requested the members of the Minority Bloc to help him preserve the dignity of the Senate.

“There is already tension,” he said. “I stuck my neck out to preserve the dignity of the Senate. I’m not doing this for any one person,” he said.

“What if somebody takes over the Senate and locks it or somebody hatches a plot? I will be held responsible.

What if somebody does a media spectacle or gimmick?”

Earlier, the Senate was placed on “increased alert” following reports that Trillanes might be arrested in his office on Friday morning, said Senate Sergeant at Arms Jose Balajadia.

However, he told reporters that all security officials of the Senate were either asked to report for work or be on standby following reports that the arrest “may happen today between 7:30 and 8:30 am.”

Under the Senate protocol, any arrest within the chamber’s premises must be coordinated either with the Senate President or the Sergeant at Arms.

Balajadia said if the Senate allowed Trillanes’ arrest, he would be formally escorted out of the Senate complex and be turned over to the arresting authorities. But he noted that no arrest would happen within the Senate compound as stated by Sotto.

Despite Trillanes’ assertion that he left the military service in 2007, the Executive branch said the former Navy lieutenant could still be arrested by the Armed Forces’ court martial.

Trillanes, one of Duterte’s fiercest critics, said he remained confident that his looming arrest would be blocked by his fellow lawmakers.

Sotto III earlier said he would not allow any arrests within the Senate halls, while opposition Senator Francis Pangilinan called on the public to troop to the Senate to protect Trillanes from arresting officers.

News Ex-Sulu gov’s bid to dismiss ‘fertilizer scam’ case junked THE Sandiganbayan has junked the appeal of former Sulu governor Yusop Jikiri to dismiss the criminal charges filed against him in connection with his alleged participation in the fertilizer fund scam.

In a resolution dated Aug. 31, the antigraft’s Third Division said Jikiri’s motion to dismiss on the basis of “inordinate delay” is “bereft of merit.”

“The Court finds that accusedmovant Jikiri has not adequately established his claim of a violation of his right to speedy disposition of cases,” the Sandiganbayan said.

Jikiri is facing criminal charges for alleged violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and malversation.

Ombudsman prosecutors said that in 2004, Jikiri paid P3.25 million in favor of Rim Allied Merchandise for the purchase of 4,643 bottles of Exquisite BD fertilizers and soil conditioners without public bidding.

In citing inordinate delay as defense, Jikiri said the Ombudsman took around five years and three months to complete its preliminary investigation, and filed the charge against him at the Sandiganbayan only in April 2018.

But the anti-graft court found no merit to Jikiri’s defense even as it also questioned the former governor’s timing of asserting his supposed constitutional right at the Sandiganbayan during his arraignment last June 29. It said Jikiri should have raised the matter during the probe of the Ombudsman’s Task Force Abono started that was started in 2006.

Maricel V. Cruz

Legislator calls for massive cleanup of country’s waterbodies AN OPPOSITION leader in the House of Representatives on Friday called for a massive cleanup of waterbodies as well as to stop the “continuing misuse and abuse,” saying “we will never be able to solve the country’s declining fish production unless we do this.”

Senior deputy minority leader and Buhay Party-list Rep. Lito Atienza on Friday urged Agriculture Secretary Manny Piñol and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to act on the matter.

“This representation has long been demanding for immediate action on the continuing abuse and degradation of our waterbodies which has been depriving our fishermen of their basic source of livelihood and a continuing affordable supply of fish in our public markets,” Atienza, one of the opposition lawmakers who called for the resignation of Piñol over the rice crisis, said.

“The Laguna de Bay, Manila Bay, the Pampanga and Bulacan rivers are examples of why we have developed a fish crisis. These waterbodies have been arrogated by fishpen and fishpond operators. These have been mainly caused by two things: One, the lack of a determined effort on the part of government to enforce the law to protect our waterbodies, and second, corruption on the part of those expected to protect our waterbodies but have been allowing the malpractices and abuse to continue,” Atienza said.

Maricel V. Cruz

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DU30 AND THE KING. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte engages in a discussion with Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan King Abdullah bin Al-Hussein while visiting a military facility at the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center in Amman, Jordan on Sept.

6, 2018. Joining the President is Secretary Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President.

Presidential Photo

Sandiganbayan upholds graft case vs ex-CHR chief

By Maricel V. Cruz

F

ORMER Commission on Human Rights Commissioner Cecilia Rachel Quisumbing has failed to convince the Sandiganbayan that her criminal case of graft, bribery, and ethical breach shoud be dismissed.

The anti-graft court’s Second Division junked Quisumbing’s motion for reconsideration in a resolution promulgated on Aug. 28.

Quisumbing is facing charges of one count each of graft, direct bribery or extortion and violation of Section 7(d) of RA 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The charges arose from a complaint of her co-terminus staff, Ma. Regina Eugenio, accusing Quisumbing of promoting her from administrative aide 6 to senior administrative assistant 3, and of demanding and collecting her salary differentials of P41,292.85 from January 2013 to July 2013.

“An assiduous review of the records discloses that both testimonial and documentary evidence appear to be

prima facie sufficient to sustain a conviction of the crimes charged,” the Sandiganbayan said.

“The Court stands by its opinion that burden of evidence is now shifted to the accused to contradict the evidence introduced against her.”

Associate Justice Lorifel Pahimna authored the resolution, with the concurrence of division chairperson Associate Justice Oscar Herrera Jr. and Associate Justice Michael Frederick Musngi.

Ombudsman prosecutors said the promotion disregarded Civil Service Commission’s guidelines and was simply carried out “for the purpose of obtaining the subordinate’s salary differentials.”

The anti-graft court division earlier asked Quisumbing to present evidence

to disprove the corruption charges filed against her by Eugenio for allegedly collecting money in exchange for the promotion of her staff.

The court also earlier denied Quisumbing’s motion for the court to dismiss outright the charges against, citing weak evidence.

Instead, the anti-graft court, in a July 20 resolution, said prosecutors were able to present strong evidence to back allegations against Quisumbing of one count each of graft, direct bribery or extortion and violation of Section 7(d) of RA 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

Quisumbing earlier maintained her innocence in the charges of direct bribery and violation of RA 6713 since there was no proof that she received the money from Eugenio.

As far as the graft case is concerned, she said there was insufficient evidence to support the alleged undue injury to the complainant or the imputed manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or inexcusable negligence on her part.

She claimed that the money was not converted to her personal benefit but was entrusted to the CRVQ Office fund, saying that sum remained intact.

BoC says there’s no congestion, delays in PH ports

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Customs assured the public that there are no port congestions and delays in the release of shipments at the Port of Manila and Manila International Container Port, the two biggest ports in the country, saying at least 87 percent of the port yards were being utilized.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña said he personally inspected the International Container Terminal Services Inc. container yard and later declared that there was no congestion at MICP. “Yard utilization of MICP at present is at 86 percent and that is within the normal operations of the port,” Lapeña said.

The Port of Manila, on the other

hand, has 88 percent yard utilization which is also within the normal operations of the port. As of press time, there are no vessels waiting to dock at South Harbor.

He said the weather condition in the Philippines has caused the delays in the berthing of vessels and unloading of containers in the yard.

“Nonetheless, the Bureau is closely coordinating with the terminal operators to be ready for the influx of cargoes for the holidays,” he said.

“The vessels are arriving simultaneously and the terminal operator cannot accommodate all vessels in the berthing area. They have to wait for their scheduled berthing in the breakwater,” the BoC chief said.

Lapeña said he issued a memorandum

order to all port collectors to expedite the processing of essential food such as rice, sugar, pork, and chicken and to closely monitor the movement of vessels anchored in the breakwater. This is to aid supply issue caused by artificial shortage.

“We are issuing alert orders on shipments with derogatory reports to balance our trade facilitation and border protection efforts. All shipments found with no irregularities are cleared immediately,” he said.

The BoC chief said that alerted general shipments shall be examined within 48 hours while perishable goods shall be examined within 24 hours from the issuance of the alert order.

Shipments found with no irregularities shall be released within 48 hours.

PAL postpones Manila-Sapporo flights

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Philippine Airlines has announced that it was postponing the original Sept.

10 launch of its Manila-Sapporo-Manila route to a new date—Oct. 8 due to a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Hokkaido last Thursday.

At least 16 people were killed in Thursday’s earthquake, according to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Search and rescue teams were still looking for 26 people missing in the western town of Atsuma in Hokkaido Prefecture.

Ma. Cielo Villaluna, PAL corporate communications chief and spokesperson, said affected passengers who have already purchased tickets with flight dates from Sept.

10 to Oct. 7 may rebook within 30 days from Oct. 8, with rebooking service fees waived.

Villaluna said PAL will try to rebook affected passengers on the next available flight dates. She added those with contact details on their Passenger Name Records will be sent notifications via e-mail and/or

call-out and/or text message/SMS. “While rebooking, rerouting and refund service fees within a 30 day period are waived under force majeure situations, fare difference is collected when a passenger rebooks on a higher cabin class,” she said.

Villaluna said the airline will provide regular updates on the situation in Hokkaido by way of PAL Advisories on its Official PAL Facebook page and official website at www.philippineairlines.com.

Two months ago, the flag carrier announced that it will start operating the Manila-Sapporo commercial flight service this month using its newly acquired A321 NEO aircraft.

The Airbus A321 NEO has 12 seats in business class and 156 seats in economy class. The business class cabin boasts generous seat pitch (legroom) of 60 inches and seats that are up to 23 inches wide and recline to become full flat beds, measuring 78 inches in length. The economy cabins offer ample stretching room with a seat pitch of 32 inches.

Gadon to run as senator under KBL LAWYER Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon, who filed an impeachment complaint against former Supreme Court chief justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, on Friday declared his plan to join the senatorial race in 2019.

At the weekly Nanka media forum in Quezon City, Gadon said he has already accepted the nomination of the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan, which was founded by the late President Ferdinand Marcos.

KBL president Jovi Opinion, a former Samar provincial board member, raised the hand of Gadon as their official senatorial bet.

Other political parties, such as the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, have thrown their support to endorse him in the May 2019 senatorial race, Gadon said.

He vowed to give his best to support any advocacy that would help improve the country.

As a lawyer, Gadon said he would initiate the passage of bills that could bolster the country’s economic growth, and reform in the education system. Rio N. Araja

Two LPAs monitored inside PAR THE Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration on Friday spotted two low pressure areas inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

The LPA at 620 kilometers northeast of Basco, Batanes, however, left the PAR. But another LPA over the vicinity of Rosales, Pangasinan was still at the PAR. The LPA would enhance the southwest monsoon to bring cloudy skies with scattered rainshowers and thunderstorms over Ilocos, Cordillera Autonomous Region, Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon.

It will rain in Palawan, Mindoro and Western Visayas due to the southwest monsoon, while Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will experience only localized thunderstorms and isolated rains.

Rio N. Araja

I’m praying for Duterte —Robredo

LABOR CHAMP. Committee on Accounts Chairperson and Leyte (1st District) Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez (fourth left) was visited by her uncle and Labor Champion and ALU-TUCP Party-List Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (third right) and Akbayan Party-List Rep. Tom Villarin (second right) who assisted IndustriALL Global Union General Secretary Valter Sanches (fourth right) during a courtesy call in Congress. Romualdez, who co-authored HB 4113 or the Expanded Maternity with Villarin, congratulates Rep. Mendoza, also a co-author of the bill, for the passage of the measure in the second reading of proposed law seeking to grant the 100-day paid maternity leave for expectant working mothers in private and public sectors. Seen in photo are Ramon Zertea-Coordinator IndustriALL, Chit Dodd- National president CLASS-TUCP, ANNI Adviento- regional secretary IndustriALL and Eva Arcos- Executive Committee Asia Pacific. Ver Noveno

DESPITE the attacks on her by President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Leni Robredo on Friday said she is always praying for him.

In Naga City, Camarines Sur for the feast of the Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Robredo said aside from her personal intentions for her family, she always prays for the country and the President.

“My greatest prayer is that the Philippines could overcome the hardship our fellow countrymen are facing. I am always praying for the President,” she said.

“I pray for him because we rely on his leadership. His failure is our failure, too,” she added.

The President recently reiterated his stance that Naga City was a hotbed of shabu. Rio N. Araja

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Opinion

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

From Leila de Lima’s desk adversities, including personal tragedies; President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo who appointed her chairman of the Commission on Human Rights; and finally, President Noynoy Aquino with whom she spent five of her most “FROM My Desk”, part 1 of the book fulfilling years as a public servant.

“Fight for Freedom,” is a collection of In “Lessons from Prison: How Pofour writings by Senator De Lima dur- litical Persecution keeps the Ideals of ing her incarceration for drug charges. Democracy Alive” the author traces “We ar Stormbreakers” is the au- the dramatic events leading to her dethor’s acceptance speech during the tention, how she was and is being perawarding ceremony of the Liberal In- secuted by the current administration, ternational Prize for Freedom given who vilifies her person and womanon July 28, 2018. The speech was de- hood. livered on her behalf by her brother, As a result, she came to grips with Vicente de Lima. Addressing the au- many realizations. First, political perdience, De Lima recognizes the influ- secution is not about an individual; it ence on her by people who shaped her is about an idea. Second, authoritarivalues as a person and human rights anism and populism are ideas that can advocate. First, freedom fighters who never be killed. They are always there laid the foundain the shadows of tions for a huthe human mind mane and just and society, waitsociety. She said ing for someone to that while she expertly manipuDictatorships and may have been late reality, or the the most vocal oppressive regimes may people’s percepand one of the come and go but truth tion of reality, to first to raise the and rule of law will make them seem alarm against the like the one and spate of extraju- prevail, she concludes. true answer to all dicial killings, the people’s woes. she is, however, Third, populists and authoritarians grateful that she create the illusion does not stand alone as many laid the foundation long of simplicity, compared with the lofty before her. In her words, “As bleak ideals of democracy and liberalism. as it may seem now, we know that it According to the author, to avert this could worse, and in fact, generations we must learn to speak to the people, of human beings before us did, indeed not to talk over them. Finally, political suffer, worse fates.” But out of those persecution is a threat to democracy. ashes this new world was rebuilt. Persecutors want their victims to be Made stronger by the simple fact that silenced, and for others to take heed it is more humane and therefore more and obey. conscious of the dignity, and value of In the essay “In Dark Times, the human life.

UDHR is a Beacon that History has Secondly, she acknowledges the in- Lit: Reflections of a Detainee” the fluence of her father, Comelec Com- author philosophizes about the life of missioner Vicente de Lima, who cau- those who choose to live for others, tioned her to always do what is right saying, “there are some of us to whom and justifiable. life is not just about one’s own existThirdly, she expresses her gratitude ence, but about building a society, and to three Filipino Presidents, namely: advancing humanity and the world we President Corazon C. Aquino, for ex- inhibit.” For this people, however, life emplifying grace, strength, wisdom is not a straight line. This is precisely and courage in the face of various Turn to A5

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

A

Dealing with a coward

N ANONYMOUS opinion piece in the New York Times has upset United States President Donald Trump, who has now called on the newspaper to reveal the “coward” behind the explosive essay.

The Times says it has decided to take the rare step of publishing the anonymous piece because doing so is the only way to deliver an important perspective to its readers.

The anonymity was requested by the writer, whose job will be jeopardized by the disclosure.

What exactly did the writer—a ranking official working in the White House, who admits to being part of the resistance within the Trump administration—say?

Many senior officials in the White House “are working diligently from within to frustrate parts of [Trump’s] agenda and his worst inclinations.”

They do not intend to bring down the administration. “We want the administration to succeed,” the writer says. But they are doing everything they can to thwart Trump’s misguided impulses until he is out of office.

Mr. Trump’s amorality, the official says, is the root of the problem.

“Anyone who works with him knows he is not moored to any discernible first principles that guide his decision making.”

Trump’s leadership style is “impetuous, adversarial, petty and ineffective.” His impulses are often anti-trade and anti-democratic. On a daily basis, White House officials are in disbelief at his comments and actions. There is no telling when he would turn around and change his mind. As a result, his impulsiveness yields “half-baked, ill-informed and occasionally reckless decisions that have to be walked back.”

What there is, in effect, is a twotrack presidency: One which Trump talks about, and the other, what the rest of the administration does in spite—not because—of him.

Trump has, of course, attacked the writer and the newspaper, and his wife Melania has told the writer: “You are not protecting this country, you are sabotaging it with your cowardly actions.” Top White House officials have separately denied writing the essay, with Vice President Mike Pence saying he was above such amateur acts.

The Times is adamant about protecting the writer’s identity.

The essay indeed succeeds in conveying a unique perspective—from within—to the public. It has angered Mr. Trump, who will likely launch a loyalty check among his staff for the plain offense of speaking out against him, regardless of whether the words were valid or even constructive in the first place. The president does not appear to be somebody who appreciates any form of criticism, however well intentioned.

He will likely not take comfort in the fact that despite whispers of invoking the 25th Amendment, a complex process for removing him, the official says nobody wanted to precipitate a constitutional crisis and that they would just instead do what they can to steer the administration in the right direction “until—one way or another—it’s over.”

Mr. Trump says the writer is a coward for wanting to be anonymous.

The writer, though, has thought it best to fight presidential cowardice in his—or her—own terms. After all, this is a leader who brands the media as the enemy of the people.

In the end, a leader who cracks down on critics and silences them through all means available is a lot more cowardly than those who decide to expose the truth even as they withhold their names.

Killing dissent Lima has been a staunch critic of the now President Duterte. Her incarceration has limited her capacity to perform her duties as a senator and also her voice as a Duterte critic.

Former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes I PERSONALLY do not like Senator Sereno was removed from office over Antonio Trillanes. That Oakwood mu- a quo warranto petition alleging that tiny he led was clearly an act of desta- her appointment as Justice of the bilization that put civilians’ lives at Court was “void ab initio” because of risk. His position on the reproductive missing Statements of Assets and Lihealth bill then was one taken from abilities. This was after the House of the Dark Ages and I repeatedly criti- Representatives failed to come to a decized him over this. His arrogant and cision on the impeachment complaint abrasive manner turns people off. against Sereno despite processing the While I find myself agreeing with same for months. Apparently, SoliciTrillanes’ position on certain issues, I tor Calida found a “better” albeit, illehave never openly sided with him ex- gal (in the eyes of many lawyers) way cept now when he to remove Sereno is being subjected via a quo warranto political perseto petition. It was cution. easier because President Rodafter all, Duterte What else can the rigo Duterte is had, and still out to kill dissent, Filipino people take? has, the numbers and with this, our in the Supreme democracy. DisCourt.

Sereno is sent, or opposing known to have a opinions, is necessary for democracy to thrive. Critics mind of her own. She was not a Duare needed for a healthy exchange of terte appointee and, therefore, owed ideas and a more informed and hope- nothing to Duterte. She went against fully, analytical citizenry. Critics are the President, and even criticized there to check possible and ongoing his pronouncements, several times. abuse. We are a nation of citizens, not She was an independent and Duterte robots programmed to do things. would not tolerate her. He already had Citizens have the capacity to think the numbers in the SC but perhaps he and the freedom to express views even needed and wanted the High Court’s if these run counter to what officials Chief Magistrate to be on his side. in government want to hear. The sa- After all, it is public knowledge that cred freedom of expression is guar- Duterte wants former senator Ferdianteed by our Constitution. It is what nand “Bongbong” Marcos as his vice keeps democracy alive. If you remove president. The SC acting as the Presithis, democracy dies. dential Electoral Tribunal is presently The Trillanes case is the latest of processing Marcos’ petition of fraud this administration’s moves to silence during the 2016 elections against Vice critics, no matter who they are.

President Leni Robredo.

Senator Leila de Lima remains Many are of the opinion that the in prison for trumped-up charges ultimate goal is to remove VP Leni. linking her to illegal drugs. Her big Now that Sereno is out and De Cas“sin” against Duterte is the fact that tro, a known Duterte ally, is in as CJ as Justice secretary, she investigated for two months, maybe those who the then Davao City Mayor for the al- want Leni dislodged from her position leged Davao Death Squad used to kill think that this can happen. perceived criminals. As a senator, De Turn to A5

POWER POINT ELIZABETH ANGSIOCO

More women on big screen, but men still tell the stories

By Fiachra Gibbons THE Venice film festival—which ends Saturday—is overflowing with movies with female storylines and meaty parts for women.

Yet all but one of them are directed by men.

The #MeToo movement set off by the Harvey Weinstein scandal may seem to be bringing breakneck change to the film industry -- with Hollywood players queueing up at Venice to pledge themselves to the female cause -- but the rhetoric is taking time to filter through to the screen.

Only one film out of the 21 in the running for the Golden Lion top prize

is by a woman.

With Venice now the launchpad for the Oscars race, the “toxic masculinity” the festival was accused of is no longer acceptable, say critics.

But look closer and more than half of the films in competition either have women leads or female-focused scripts.

From the hilarious historical British comedy “The Favourite” with its noholds-barred battle between powerful women at the court of Queen Anne, to the indigenous Mexican maids in “Roma,” Alfonso Cuaron’s beautifully gritty paeon to the women who raised him, strong women have dominated the screen in Venice.

Indeed, both films are favorites for

the top prize alongside “The Nightingale,” Jennifer Kent’s rousing epic about an avenging convict woman in colonial Tasmania.

And men were relegated to bit parts, the playthings of bloodthirsty Berlin witches, in the slick female horror, “Suspiria.”

‘Sex and love objects’ The trend appears to be global.

Both Argentine films in competition, “The Accused” and “The Quietude”, turn on relationships between women.

Even the two martial arts flicks—Chinese master Zhang Yimou’s “Shadow” and Japanese samurai tale “Killing” —are held together by towering female Turn to A5

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

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

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Opinion The Indian artist drawing portraits with a typewriter

By Peter Hutchison CLICKETY-CLACK, clickety-clack, ding rings out from a home in India’s Mumbai where Chandrakant Bhide is creating his latest artwork—on a typewriter.

The 72-year-old thumps the keys of the bulky, manual machine to draw portraits of famous people, all bearing an unmistakable resemblance to their subject.

From politicians and film stars to cricketers, animation characters and religious symbols, Bhide has produced around 150 pieces of typewriter art over the past half century.

“I have done many personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy. This is my hobby, my passion,” he tells AFP. Bhide has held 12 exhibitions of his work and become something of a local celebrity since discovering his unique talent in the late 1960s while employed as a bank clerk.

As a young man he had wanted to go to art school and become a commercial artist but his family was unable to afford the costs so he trained in stenography instead.

Bhide was working in the administrative department of Union Bank of India when in 1967 his boss

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the driving force behind the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. She then ruminates on the reason of her detention, that is, she is detained not because she is guilty but because the powers that be are afraid of defenders of human rights; they fear those who will stand up for the poor, the defenseless and the oppressed, for we (human rights defenders) are what stands between them and their consolidation of absolute power and dominion. She is hopeful that someday she will regain her freedom because our society is

Killing...

From A4

In Trillanes’ case, we again hear the phrase “void ab initio” or void from the beginning. President Duterte issued Proclamation No. 572 dated Aug. 31 revoking the amnesty given to the senator for being “void ab initio”. The claim is Trillanes did not apply for amnesty, and that he did not admit guilt for the Oakwood incident. The application paper is nowhere to be found according to a certification from the Armed Forces of the Philippines dated Aug. 30.

Why Trillanes? He is another strong critic of the Duterte administration.

From Day One, Trillanes has accused the President of having hidden bank deposits, and has repeatedly challenged him to sign a waiver so his bank transactions could be scrutinized. Duterte has consistently rejected this challenge.

Trillanes is also leading the Senate Committee on Civil Service’s investigation on the legality of Solicitor General Jose Calida’s security company’s contracts with government offices. Calida’s family-owned Vigilant Investigative and Security Agency Inc. was found to have contracts with various government agencies reportedly

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performances.

Not to mention Lady Gaga and Natalie Portman playing kick-ass pop divas in “A Star is Born” and “Vox Lux.” “Which is big progress even if men are directing them,” said Australian critic Stephanie Bunbury.

“But we do have a hell of a long way to go.

“The penny may only now be dropping, but from the birth of cinema, women have largely been kept to a minor, subsidiary role. Their job was be decorative ciphers, to reflect male glory or be sex or love objects,” she told AFP. When women got meaty parts, it was “often through their relationships with male directors, on whom they were dependent,” Bunbury added.

Women have been seen through eyes of men. “Which is why when we see films (made by women) with a female gaze, they often seem so refreshing,”

asked him to type up a list of staff intercom numbers.

“I typed it in the form of a telephone itself. When I saw it I thought, ‘This is fantastic, I can make art through this medium.’ Everybody seemed to like it too,” he recalls.

Bhide started using the “x” key to produce images of Hindu god Ganesha to mark India’s annual festival celebrating the elephant-headed deity.

He then began to experiment with other keys—including “w,” dash, asterisk, ampersand and percentage sign —progressing to create portraits of celebrities from India and abroad.

While Bhide takes only 15 minutes to draw Ganesha, several hours are required to complete a famous face in what is a painstaking process.

No delete key With steely focus he uses his left hand to grip the knob that controls the platen—the roller that feeds the paper through—as he taps the keys with his right index finger.

He stops every so often to change the angle of the page before typing again.

Sometimes he’ll flick the colorchange lever from black to red or viceversa and he’ll glance down regularly at the photograph he is working off to make sure he hasn’t made an error.

“Typing requires dedication and concentration. If you put one stroke in

the wrong place then you have to start again.

“It’s not like a computer where you can delete. Many times I’ve made mistakes and had to start again,” says Bhide.

The septuagenarian has drawn several Indian actors over the years including Amitabh Bachchan and Dilip Kumar as well as American cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse and Archie.

Cricketers feature heavily, such as Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar, whose famous curly hair Bhide recreated with hundreds of “at” symbols used in email addresses.

Bhide, who doesn’t sell his artwork or take orders, has been featured in several Indian newspapers and has been able to show his portraits to many of the Indian stars he has drawn.

He says he plans to attempt Donald Trump, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

All of his works have been produced on the same Halda typewriter he used for the 30 years that he worked at Union Bank. The bank gifted it to him for one rupee when he retired in the mid-90s.

“I have got so many things out of this typewriter. Typing is an art,” he says. AFP

standing on the foundation built by generations that have come before us.

Dictatorships and oppressive regimes may come and go but truth and rule of law will prevail, she concludes.

“A Beacon In Dark Times: The UDHR Turns 70 But Why Do We Still Need It?”—this is the final opinion piece which the author wrote in collaboration with Morten Ostergaard, former Deputy Prime Minister of Denmark. The opinion piece was written in commemoration of the promulgation of the UDHR 70 years ago. She said that even at present the “values enshrined in the UDHR are in desperate need of resuscitation. If freedomloving, democracy-cherishing peoples

fail to come together, to act, to speak out soon, we will quickly discover that events will take over and we will have started acting too late. Populistnationalists have our democracies in their sights and they have already fired an opening salvo.” She warns that “inaction is a choice not a defense, citing John Stuart Mill who once wrote:” Let not anyone pacify his conscience by the delusion that he can do no harm if he takes no part, and forms no opinion.

Bad men need nothing more … than that good men should look on and do nothing.”

worth P261.39 million. Calida’s family has asked the SC to issue a Temporary Restraining Order against the Senate probe but has failed to get one as of this writing.

Therefore, Calida has an ax to grind against Trillanes. According to the AFP, it was the SolGen who requested confirmation from them that the senator’s application form was missing. Remember that Calida was also behind the quo warranto petition against Sereno, and even earlier, the revocation of Rappler’s registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Trillanes case, however, may be difficult for Duterte and his allies because of the presence of evidence that the senator has filed an application, and admitted guilt which were the bases for the revocation of the amnesty. The event was heavily covered by media. Videos released by different media outfits showed Trillanes filing for amnesty and cameras even zoomed in on his application papers. He was then interviewed and even here, he admitted “general guilt.”

More than this, both the House of Representatives and Senate approved the resolutions granting amnesty to Trillanes. The Supreme Court has dismissed the petition questioning the amnesty’s legality, and the Makati

Regional Trial Court under then Judge Rita Bascos Sarabia dismissed the case against Trillanes by virtue of the amnesty. In short, all the three branches of government were involved in the granting of this amnesty and everybody knows that the SC is the final arbiter when it comes to law.

Not a few lawyers and legislators have also weighed in on the issue and most if not all of those who have spoken said that the president cannot revoke an amnesty because the Constitution does not provide for this.

Presently, Trillanes is under the care of Senate President Tito Sotto.

Duterte, for his part has said that he will wait for the warrant of arrest to be issued before moving in to get Trillanes from the senate. Trillanes, for his part has asked for a TRO from the SC. The move to kill dissent is evident from the cases involving Senator De Lima, Rappler, former CJ Sereno, and now, Senator Trillanes. It is as if we are under martial law albeit undeclared. If this administration can do this to government officials and a media outfit, how easy will it be to silence ordinary critics? What else can the Filipino people take?

she argued.

Cuaron—an Oscar winner for “Gravity” and “Children of Men”— told reporters that seeing the world through women’s eyes for “Roma” had marked him.

“The film forced me to see things as a woman and a member of the lower classes from the indigenous population,” said the Mexican-born director.

“It gave me a point of view that I never had or really understood before.”

Australia leading way Kent said it “brought her no joy” to be the only women in the competition in Venice with “The Nightingale.”

“Cinema’s job is to reflect the world and if we only reflect 50 percent, it’s not doing that.”

Her producer Bruna Papandrea insisted that it wasn’t enough to get women behind the camera.

“There has been resistance to stories concerning women and a perception that if a film has a woman at its center, it’s a film for women.”

Despite having to be effectively browbeaten last week into signing the

same equality goals as other major festivals like Cannes, Papadrea said Venice deserves credit for choosing so many movies this year driven by female characters.

Bunbury said “the obsession now quite rightly with arithmetic equality” in festival lineups “should pass as more women get a fair go.”

“Inevitably there’s a lag because female directors are such a small proportion of the directorial pool,” she said.

Real progress will come when “women are no longer corralled into making films about women. Deborah Granik’s excellent new film ‘Leave No Trace’ is a great example. She wanted to find out about men’s lives and it’s really impressive.”

Kent—who had a cross-over arthouse hit with her debut movie “The Babadook”—said change is coming.

“Gender was not an impediment in my upbringing. I made two films in Australia where I found the industry to be very respectful to women. The world can take a leaf out of what Australia and New Zealand are doing.” AFP

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Wasteland makeovers bring creative cool to Paris suburb

By Sarah Brethes MUSIC throbs from a bar set up on a patch of scrubland and artists toil in what was once a tire factory. This is the Paris suburb of Seine-Saint-Denis, but not as the locals know it.

Better known for concrete high-rises home to poor immigrants and France’s highest crime rate, Seine-Saint-Denis is now welcoming flocks of Parisians to hipster oases that are bringing a welcome injection of cash and energy.

When they set up in the northern suburb more than a decade ago, Soukmachines, a collective of young event planners, initially “had to clear what resembled a rubbish dump”, recalls Anne-Sophie Levet.

These days she is deputy head of La Halle Papin, a vast pop-up arts space in the solidly working-class neighborhood of Quatre Chemins.

In 2016, the local town hall had offered Soukmachines a year’s use of the unoccupied tyre and tool factory for a dirt-cheap rent, on condition that they breathed new life into it.

One year was extended to three, and now it is a thriving hub of artists’ studios and shops with a busy program of concerts and cultural events, a paddling pool and self-service barbecues.

“There are jewellers, fashion designers, welders,” says Franck Cardinal, an artist and architect who works on site.

“It’s a chance to meet other people who do different work, and enrich what we all produce here.”

Changing stereotypes Some 20,000 people visited last year, many of them Parisians—for whom the ring-road around the capital has traditionally marked a psychological barrier.

“These are now places for strolling and for tourists to visit in greater Paris, for Parisians looking for a bit of space, and places to party,” says the region’s Socialist head Stephane Troussel.

Paris is far from the first city to turn unwanted land into an edgy arts hub: similar projects have found success all over Europe, from the shipyards of Amsterdam’s NDSM to RAW in Berlin, an unused train repair depot.

Around 80 plots of wasteland have been given makeovers in Paris and the surrounding region.

But local officials are proud that

more than a third are in Seine-SaintDenis—unloved areas turned into cultural spaces, community centres or even urban farms.

Regeneration The region north of Paris boomed after World War II, drawing thousands of laborers from France’s North African colonies to its chemical factories, metalworks and other industrial sites.

But deindustrialization hit SeineSaint-Denis hard from the 1960s onwards, emptying factories as the region’s reputation shifted to one of crime and poverty.

Today, a third of residents live below the poverty line, although authorities hope a massive infrastructure project dubbed “Grand Paris” will aid regeneration by enticing commuters to the suburb by 2025.

In the meantime, while some may complain of a hipster influx, officials see projects like La Halle Papin as a showcase for the potential of “the 93,” as Seine-Saint-Denis is known after its postcode.

Similar projects include the Cite Fertile, a former freight train depot now offering organic food and beach volleyball, as well as Station E, a forthcoming “village” of shipping containers which will be powered by green energy.

“We have an area full of enterprising young people and abandoned spaces,” said Mireille Alphonse, deputy mayor of the Seine-Saint-Denis town of Montreuil.

She is also deputy chief of Est Ensemble (“East Together”), a group of gentrifying Seine-Saint-Denis communities which for the past three years has systematically put out tenders for people to run plots of unused land.

“We decided to help them so that our towns don’t just become dormitories for Paris,” she said, adding that the group was following a model used successfully in Britain and Germany.

Renaud Chateaugiron, operations manager at a new temporary open-air cafe by the canal in Pantin, just north of the Paris border, said the project might struggle to find a new site once its permit runs out in two summers’ time.

“Make no bones about it, before long there won’t be any unoccupied land left in Seine-Saint-Denis,” he predicted.

MAIL MATTERS

Campaigning against all forms of smuggling IN THE last couple of weeks, the Bureau of Customs was rocked again by controversies following the discovery of the two magnetic lifters full of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” at the Manila International Container Port and the four empty magnetic lifters that were found in GMA, Cavite which the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) alleges to likewise also contain more or less one ton of shabu as well. At the center of these controversies is the BOC X-Ray Inspection Project as the unit that scanned the four empty lifters found in Cavite.

An image of the four empty lifters that began circulating in the media as well as to the offices of some legislators purportedly showing that they were stuffed with shabu fueled speculations from the public that indeed drugs were smuggled out of Customs without being detected by their scanners. The unauthorized distribution of this image was aimed at influencing the minds of the reader into believing that a portion of the image showing a different pseudo colored contrast to be that of shabu. However, the fact is that not a single grain of shabu was found in the warehouse where the four empty lifters were found and the swabbing test done by the PNP and PDEA themselves on the lifters as well as the aluminum foils which is a material that supposedly had a direct contact with the presumed narcotic contents of the lifters yielded negative results for the presence of shabu.

The only idea that the PDEA is vainly trying to sell the public is that there probably was drugs inside the lifters because their drug sniffing dog sat beside the lifters to indicate that it smelled something that will indicate the presence of shabu.

The PDEA failed to consider that in many instances, particularly at the Port of Batangas, MICP and even at NAIA and at the Port of Clark when

their K9 dogs sat beside certain shipments and luggage as signal that they sniffed something inside, however, during the actual examination of said containers and luggage, no drugs were found. This statement of PDEA could well have a major effect in our judicial system considering that they categorically stated that the swabbing test, a scientific method to determine the presence of drugs is not an accurate indication of their presence.

Does this mean that we should give more credence to the result of the K9 detection rather than on the more scientific procedure of testing which our courts held to be more reliable and accurate?

What is more interesting here is the apparent interest of some individuals inside the Bureau of Customs to influence the result of the investigation that is being conducted by the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs. Disgruntled employees still remain in the halls of Customs and are moving heaven and earth to discredit the credibility of the bureau and its personnel. These smooth-talking charlatans are doing everything to discredit the negative findings of the X-ray division and the PDEA swab test on the four empty lifters to push their selfish interest.

What these individuals do not realize is that they are damaging an institution that is trying hard to rebuild its image after it was shaken by a similar controversy one year ago.

Despite these intrigues, the Bureau of Customs under the leadership of Commissioner Lapeña remains steadfast in its campaign against all forms of smuggling. The wedge that was created by these controversies between PDEA and BOC will end as both institutions are one in their mission to end the proliferation of smuggled drugs in the country.

SAM GARCIA Port Area, Manila

News

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PAL launches special service travel offerings

FRIDAY CENSURE.

Activists stage a Black Friday protest at Nepa Q Mart public market in Quezon City beside the main highway Epifanio de los Santos Avenue to condemn the continued price increases of prime commodities, calling for the junking of the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion Law but wages remain stagnant.

Manny Palmero

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Philippine Airlines on Friday announced it would launch on Grandparents Day—Sept 9—special service offerings to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience of senior citizens.

The four-star national carrier will unveil a package of products and services, some existing and some new, geared towards ensuring that elder passengers will have a delightful flight.

The special privileges include 20 percent Discount and VAT exemption for domestic flights, Online Booking and Check in, Special Meals (with Pre-Cut Meals), Curbside Drop off and Pick Up Points, Priority Check—In and Immigration Lanes, Courtesy Waiting Areas and Seats, Special Wheelchair Assistance from Departure to Arrival, Priority Boarding, Wheelchair-friendly Airport Terminal Transfer Buses and Courtesy Area for Baggage Retrieval.

“PAL values all our passengers, especially those who need special assistance, our senior citizens and PWDs. Their needs are our priority. We want to make their travel experience comfortable and delightful. We continually stress to our frontliners the importance of bringing to life PAL’s Service Culture of Buong Pusong Alaga, Walang Katulad na Pag Aruga,” said PAL chief customer experience officer Jessica Abaya.

Abaya advises its senior citizen-passengers that they can now avail themselves of special meals to suit their dietary requirements with the option for soft-diet or pre-cut meals.

She urged passengers to declare their meal requirements and other requests for assistance during booking/reservation or at least 48 hours before travel.

Abaya said the Curbside Drop off and Pick Up points, Priority Check— In Lanes, Courtesy Areas and Seats, Priority Boarding lanes could be seen easily as PAL set up easy-to-spot signage.

At the Baggage Claim, specific areas are dedicated to Senior Citizens for the convenient retrieval of their luggage.

“Our direct flights to the US, London and Australia are convenient and popular among our senior citizen passengers.

They also appreciate the special care our Cabin Crew provide them during their flight, assisting them to go to the lavatory, stow their bags, help them with forms, etc.,” said Abaya.

DoH welcomes Senate okay of budget

PWDs’ PhilHealth coverage approved on 2nd reading

By Maricel V. Cruz

T

HE House of Representatives has approved on second reading House Bill 8014, seeking to provide for the mandatory Philippine Health Insurance Corp. coverage of all persons with disability.

The bill, principally authored by Rep. Micaela Violago of Nueva Ecija, provides for the amendment of Republic Act 7277, as amended, or the “Magna Carta for Persons with Disability.”

The House is expected to pass the bill on third and final reading next week.

The amendment provides for the addition of a new Section 20-A, entitled Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage, in RA 7277 and which provides that “All persons with disability not currently afforded health insurance under any existing category shall be covered by the National Health Insurance Program of the PhilHealth.

The funds necessary for the effec-

tive implementation of the Act shall be sourced from the National Health Insurance Fund of PhilHealth earmarked from the proceeds of Republic Act 10351, otherwise known as “An Act Restructuring the Tax on Alcohol and Tobacco Products,” in accordance with pertinent laws and regulations.

The PhilHealth and the Department of Social Welfare and Development shall promulgate, within 30 days after the effectivity of the Act, the necessary rules and regulations for its implementation.

Violago, member for the majority bloc of the House committee on health, said RA 10645 would provide for the mandatory PhilHealth coverage of all

NAGMEC challenge welcomed

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Department of Health welcomes the Senate approval of the P1.16-billion supplemental budget to assist children vaccinated with Dengvaxia.

“We are very pleased with the recent approval by the Senate of the DoH budget proposal which will certainly benefit, primarily the Dengvaxia-vaccinated children including their respective families. We deeply commend our Honorable Senators for this development,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III. Duque said majority of the budget or some P945.8 million would be allocated for the medical assistance program for Dengvaxia recipients seeking treatment, either confined at a hospital or outpatient.

He also said P148.3 million would be spent on the assessment and monitoring of Dengvaxia recipients and for supplies and medicines; and P67.6 million would be used in the deployment of health workers, who would follow up on complaints of the vaccine recipients.

The budget represents the amount refunded by Sanofi Pasteur to the DoH for the unused Dengvaxia vaccines that were returned.

After having been approved by both chambers of Congress, the said bill is now up for the President’s approval and automatically becomes a law 15 days after publication in the major broadsheets.

The use of the said fund is broken down into the following: 81 percent will be for medical assistance program of Dengvaxia-vaccinees, 13 percent will be for public health management, and 6 percent for human resource for health development.

Senator Loren Legarda, sponsor of the bill and chaiman of the Senate Committee on Finance, said the measure would provide medical assistance for hospitalization and out-patient care services to all dengue patients, including those who received the Dengvaxia vaccine.

“Through this, we hope to, somehow, allay fears of the almost 900,000 individuals who were administered with the Dengvaxia vaccine,” she said.

The senator noted that the Senate version, in fact, widened the scope of the medical assistance program, in terms of beneficiaries as well as covered areas.

senior citizens.

Another vulnerable sector that needs health protection is the group of PWDs. In the 2015 Census, however, disability questions were not included by the Philippine Statistics Authority since such questions shall be included in the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, according to Violago.

Meanwhile, the 2010 Census on Population and Housing estimates that about 16,000 Filipinos have disability.

“With the country’s current population of 100 million, that translates to about 1.6 million Filipinos living with a disability,” Violago said.

Relatedly, the World Health Organization said people with disabilities, though having the same health needs as non-disabled people, had less access to health care service, hence experienced unmet health care needs.

“Evidence also suggests that people with disabilities face barriers in accessing the health and rehabilitation services they need in many settings. This should not be the case,” said Violago.

IMPORTS, NO. Rural groups unite to defend Philippine agriculture and condemn importation of agricultural products such as rice, fish, vegetables and meat as band-aid solution to the inflation, now highest at 6.4 percent after nine years. Photo shows thumbs up for local products and thumbs down for imported goods during a press conference in Quezon City Memorial Circle. Manny Palmero

US, RP hold 12th National Education Summit in Pasay

By Rey Requejo

MORE than 400 leaders from local governments, schools and private sector have attended the 12th National Education Summit held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

The United States, through the US Agency for International Development, convened the summit in partnership with Philippine government and Synergeia Foundation, a multi-sectoral non-government organization that works with local government units to give every child an opportunity to finish basic education.

The participants during the Sept.6 summit shared best practices on education governance, including topics such as increasing community engagement, budgeting, partnering with the public and private sector and civil society, and de-

centralization of basic education.

The summit is a part of USAID’s five-year, P489-million Education Governance Effectiveness project that supports the Philippines’ goal of boosting learning outcomes in the early grades, the US Embassy said, in a statement.

It also aims to provide an opportunity to benchmark the results of their programs on education.

“The US government believes that early-grade literacy is the foundation for future learning. But this foundation also requires strong community engagement, accountability, and transparency in education,” US Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires Michael Klecheski said.

“I commend you for taking the necessary steps in investing in your children, and therefore, investing in our common future,” he added.

SOLAR Para sa Bayan president Leandro Leviste welcomed the challenge of the National Association of General Managers of Electric Cooperatives for the private sector to “prioritize remote, underserved locations first.”

The challenge is intended to show their sincerity in supplying power to the countryside, even as he is also amused, if not confused why the electric cooperative managers, despite their challenge, are against the entry of the private sector into their unserved and underserved communities.

Leviste’s statement came after his company’s announcement that it would be establishing battery minigrids to benefit 200,000 Filipinos in 12 towns.

“We hope this will not only benefit these towns, but create healthy competition that benefits consumers across the country,” Leviste said in a statement.

The 12 towns that would enjoy 24/7 power through the Solar Para sa Bayan projects are from Mindoro, Palawan, Masbate, Cagayan and Aurora.

The first time so many will get electricity at zero cost to the government.

The company aims to bring 24/7 power to 500,000 Filipinos by the end of 2018.

“As we accept the NAGMEC challenge, we hope that for their part, they will also stop opposing attempts by the private sector to enter the poorly served areas—as we’ve already served in 12 towns. After all, these towns’ requests for better electric service have been ignored for years. Yet now they’re being served by an alternative provider. Unless certain coops prefer these town to have no power at all,” Leviste said.

NAGMEC president Sergio Dagooc warned that “any effort on electrification done without government subsidy is not sustainable,” adding that “only electric cooperatives’ sustained it for close to five decades now because the government subsidized the cost.”

IN BRIEF Comelec told: Leave LGU buildings A CONGRESSMAN from Mindanao on Friday urged the Commission on Elections not to hold office in buildings owned by local governments.

Rep. Frederick Siao of Iligan City, member for the majority bloc of the House committee on electoral reforms, said that in many cities, towns and provincial capitals, Comelec offices were “essentially informal settlers or squatters” in local government building, putting the poll body’s independence in the local level under a cloud.

Exacerbating the problem is the fact that private lands and buildings in the provinces are either owned or run by the political families, Siao said.

“Whatever available lands that are government-owned would most likely be those occupied by state universities and colleges, government hospitals and military of police camps,” Siao said.

“We have spent much time, money, and effort to modernize, automate, and computerize or elections, but we, as a people, have neglected the Comelec itself. Chairmen and commissioners come and go, but the ones who stay and keep the system running—however ancient they may be—are the field officials, rank and file personnel, and the casuals and contractuals,” he said. Maricel V. Cruz

Immigration nabs illegal 34 Chinese IMMIGRATION authorities arrested 34 Chinese citizens caught in the act of working illegally at a construction site near the SM Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City last Tuesday.

Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the BI was still verifying the visa status of the arrested foreigners to confirm if they had overstayed in the country.

He said the foreigners without an appropriate visa would be charged and undergo deportation proceedings for working without a proper visa and for violating the conditions of their stay.

“Initial investigation indicate that they arrived here as tourists and that they were employed as construction workers without securing the necessary work permits from the government,” the BI chief said.

He said that under the country’s immigration and labor laws, foreigners intending to work here must first apply for a permit from the Department of Labor and Employment and a working visa from the BI. Vito Barcelo

POEA warns job seekers on FB pages THE Philippine Overseas Employment Administration warned job seekers on the proliferation of unauthorized Facebook pages that post supposed overseas job vacancies using the POEA name and logo.

Most of the Facebook pages offering jobs are operated by scammers, illegal recruiters, and other enterprising individuals who wanted to earn extra money though advertisements and links to other job portals, the POEA said in a statement.

“Owners of these Facebook accounts post job vacancies that were either fake or unverified and were not approved by the POEA,” the agency said.

The POEA also said that the scammers use page titles with catchy labels such as work abroad, job hiring and accredited agency to prompt job applicants, the target niche market, into “liking” their page.

“The POEA only has two official FB pages and these are poea.gov.ph and poea. official. Both were verified as authentic by Facebook and have the blue verification badge,” the agency said in its statement.

Facebook pages like POEA Jobs Online, POEA Job Agency Hiring, POEA Job Hiring, POEA Jobs Abroad-Accredited Agency, POEA Job Hiring USA, New Zealand Job Hiring, POEA Job Agency Hiring USA, POEA Job Hiring Australia WORK Abroad, Work Abroad OFW, Work Abroad Poea Accrediated Agency, Work Abroad Opportunities, work Abroad Hiring, Work Abroad Poea Licensed Agency and many other pages that use the POEA brand are not in any way associated with or endorsed by the administration. Vito Barcelo

Sports

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

New World Hotels’ Golf for a Cause set Sept. 28

Enriquez seeks sweep of PPS Zambo swing SYDNEY Ezra Enriquez tries to complete a rare sweep of the threeleg Zamboanga del Norte swing of the Palawan Pawnshop Palawan Express Pera Padala age group tennis circuit as she banners the cast in the PPS-PEPP Sindangan tournament which got under way yesterday at the Sindangan Tennis Club.

Enriquez took the girls’ 16- and 18-and-under singles titles in the Liloy stop and at her hometown Salug the last two weeks with the rising star eyeing to make it threein-row in the Group 2 tournament hosted and sponsored by Mayor Nilo Florentino Sy. But a slew of players will be out to foil her bid, including Princess Gom-os, who is also itching to recover from a series of setbacks, along with Ramela Borromeo, Faith Virgo, Realyn Rosales, Angel Repaja, Jalia Elumba and Jossah Ranas in the premier category of the event presented by Dunlop.

Enriquez also faces an acid test in the 16-U play where she takes a backseat in the rankings dominated

by No. 1 Rica Labrador and second seed Elumba with Faith Regencia, Kristine Caindog and Gom-os also tipped to contend.

Nilo Ledama is also gunning for a two-title feat in the boys’ side of the event put up by Palawan Pawnshop, headed by president/CEO Bobby Castro and sanctioned by the Unified Tennis Philippines, made up of PPS-PEPP, Cebuana Lhuillier, Wilson, Toby’s, Dunlop, Slazenger and B-Meg. Ledama, foiled by Jose Maria Pague in the 18-U finals in Salug, gains the top seeding but faces tough challenge from the likes of Lex Estillore, Jessy Elumba and Ram Etcubanas. Estillore, meanwhile, is the player to beat in 16-U side with Ledama at No. 2 followed by Nash Agustines and Russel Daarol.

Keen competition is also seen in the boys’ and girls’ 12- and 14-U categories and 10-unisex play with titles and ranking points also up for grabs in the girls’ and boys’ 14- and 18-U doubles and 10-unisex.

Meanwhile, Lanao del Norte will host the next leg on Sept. 1417. Listup is ongoing. For details, call PPS-PEPP Program Development director Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Naomi Osaka of Japan celebrates a point against Madison Keys of the US during their 2018 US Open women’s singles semi-finals tennis match in New York. AFP

History maker Osaka tells Serena: I love you N

natal surgeries.

EW YORK—Naomi Osaka told US Open title opponent “When you just come back and then Serena Williams “I love you” just moments after she became you make the finals of two slams, I the first Japanese woman to reach a Grand Slam final. think that’s really amazing,” added

The 20-year-old breakout star of the tournament swept into the record books and Saturday’s championship match against the 23-time major winner with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Madison Keys, the runner-up in 2017.

When asked on court what she told herself as she served for the match, she said: “Don’t double fault”.

“Why,” asked the interviewer. “Serena,” replied the charismatic Osaka.

“I love you, Serena,” she added before adding “I love you, mom; I love everybody”.

Osaka, the 20th seed, has met and defeated Williams once -- at Miami in March.

That win came just a week after she had lifted her first top-level trophy at the prestigious Indian Wells event in California.

Saturday will be the fulfilment of Osaka’s childhood dream of facing Williams in a Grand Slam final.

“It still feels a little bit, like, surreal.

Even when I was a little kid, I always dreamed that I would play Serena in a final of a Grand Slam,” she said.

“Just the fact that it’s happening, I’m very happy about it. At the same time I feel like even though I should enjoy this moment, I should still think of it as another match.

“Yeah, I shouldn’t really think of her as, like, my idol. I should just try to play her as an opponent.”

The contrast on Saturday cannot be greater.

Serena will be playing in her 31st Grand Slam final and ninth at the US Open where she is a six-time champion.

When the American, 16 years her senior, won her first US Open in 1999, Osaka was not yet two years old.

Whatever happens in the final, Osaka said she will remain a fan of the American who is chasing a recordequalling 24th major, just a year after giving birth and undergoing four post-

Osaka in reference to Williams’s runner-up spot at Wimbledon in July.

“I’m sure that everyone knows that Serena’s really good, of course. But I don’t want to overthink this match, so I’m not going to think that she’s so much better than she was in Miami.

“I’m just going to go out there and play. Since I already know she’s a good player, I don’t want to be surprised if she plays better or not.”

Keys had beaten Osaka three times out of three before Thursday’s semi-final but the 14th seed admitted she had been completely over-powered in the semi-final.

“I thought I could get a break but every time she would hit an ace or a big shot,” said the 23-year-old who carved out 13 break points which were all saved by the Japanese star.

“It was difficult. You think she’s going to let up but she didn’t. She was very impressive.” AFP

Toby’s Sports celebrates 40th year with KO Anniversary Event TOBY’S Sports, the largest multibrand sports retailer in the country, marked its 40th year of dominance in the industry with a grand anniversary celebration called “It’s Game Time” last Aug. 30, at the Metrotent Convention Center in Metrowalk Plaza, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City.

The momentous occasion paid tribute to the men and women behind the success of Toby’s Sports in the past four decades, as it coincided with the retirement of its chief executive officer, Mr. Bobby Claudio.

During the event, Toby’s Sports treated its sports-luxe-clad guests with special performances from “Mr. Pure Energy,” multi-awarded singer-songwriter Gary Valenciano; the University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe, the winningest squad in the UAAP Cheerdance Competition; pop boy band and Myx Music Awardee for Favorite Group “The Juans”; and DJ Jon Tupaz.

Evolving from being a modest toy shop to what is now Filipinos’ sports retailer of choice, Toby’s Sports prides itself in having the widest selection of products in the country. It offers a

Shown is the retirement ceremony of Toby’s Sports Founder Bobby Claudio (middle).

well-curated lineup of the latest sports footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories from the world’s leading brands, including a diverse portfolio of its own in-house brands that combine performance with value.

Toby’s Sports has a team of sports specialists and enthusiasts who are ready to share their expertise with anyone who walks into any of its over 50+ stores nationwide. The establishment has also extended the shopping

experience well beyond mall hours with its e-commerce store, www.tobys.com.

Throughout its 40 years in the industry, Toby’s Sports has become more than just a store of sporting goods, as it continuously builds itself as an ally in sports and fitness of its millions of customers.

“Toby’s Sports is here not just to provide you with the gear that you need, but more importantly, to inspire you to succeed. In sports and life, We Got This,” Toby Claudio, President of Quorum International Inc., the parent company of Toby’s Sports, assures customers and clients.

Guided by a strong set of core values that propelled it to where it is now, Toby’s Sports remains committed to provide its patrons with the support and motivation that they need to succeed. As the company ushers in a new decade, Claudio further ensures that “Toby’s Sports will continue to expand and innovate with the times, remaining committed to improving itself so that greatness will be more achievable for every Filipino dreamer.”

THE New World Hotels and Resort Cup: Golf For a Cause returns for the third straight year as it continues to give back to the locals and communities by offering financial and educational support to children through golf.

New World Hotels and Resorts will be holding its third staging of ‘New World Hotels & Resort Cup: Golf For a Cause’ on Sept. 28 at The Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club in Carmona, Cavite.

The annual golfing tourney aims to raise funds for the young scholars of Springboard Foundation through their secondary education while promoting camaraderie to the players and benefactors, who will join the event.

As of now, Springboard Foundation is helping 20 students to finish their senior high school this academic year and 100 scholars taking their secondary education.

“We partnered again with Springboard Foundation as our beneficiary this year to continue providing its scholars with sustainable and quality education,” said Farid Schoucair, General Manager of New World Makati Hotel during the official press launch and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement at the New World Makati Hotel.

The event is in collaboration with Fortunegate Holdings Philippines Inc., Jeeves of Belgravia Manila, media partner Solar Sports, and airline partner Philippine Airlines.

Interested players may avail of the tournament fee of P4,500 inclusive of green fee, golf cart (sharing), and lunch. For reservations, call Frances Peria at + 63-2811-6888 ext. 3289 or at +63-917-554-3217. Charles Dantes

Southwoods out to regain Ladies’ crown MANILA Southwoods, denied a seventh straight title last year in Cebu City, has assembled a youth-laden squad to challenge defending champion Pradera Verde in the 13th Philippine Airlines Ladies Interclub golf team championships on Sept. 18-22 at Rancho Palos Verdes in Davao City.

The Carmona-based squad decided not to send a second team to defend its Founders crown and focus its energy toward reclaiming the overall title, according to Southwoods captain Claire Ong. “We really want to try and win it again, that’s why we tapped some players from our second team to reinforce the squad,” said Ong. Seventeen-year-old Sofia Chabon and Sunshine Baraquiel, 25, will spearhead Southwoods’ campaign and will get support from three members of the Founders champion team, namely: Mafy Singson, 15; Annika Guangko, 20 and Laurea Duque, 14.

Kristine Torralba, 18, who played for Pradera last year, Samantha Dizon, 14, and Mariel Tee, 17, round out the team.

Last year, Pradera made a smashing debut, posting a runaway 43-point victory over Southwoods.

Asian Games champion Yuka Saso returns to spearhead Pradera’s title defense along with holdovers Annika Cayabyab and Nicole Abelar.

A trio of 16-year-old Malaysians in Zulaikah Nusiana Nasser, Charlayne Chong and Vinisha Gunaseelan have been tapped to reinforce the defending champions. Completing the lineup are Rhianne Malixi and Luna Shin.

Major sponsors for the 13th PAL Ladies Interclub include Airbus, Bombardier, People Asia, UM Broadcasting Network and Primax Broadcasting Network.

Nietes-Palicte, GGG-Alvarez on Sky Pay Per View UP eyes strong volley finish vs FEU AN action-packed weekend awaits boxing fans for the next two Sundays as they can witness a historic match between Pinoy fighters Donnie Nietes and Aston Palicte (Sept. 9) and boxing stars Gennady Golovkin and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez (Sept. 16) straight from the US. The special SKY Sports Pay-Per-View bundle that will be shown commercialfree and in high definition is offered for only P249 to all SKYcable, SKYdirect, and One SKY Fiber subscribers so they can get front row access to this month’s must-see boxing matches.

This Sunday, Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes and Aston Palicte will become the fourth pair of Filipinos in history to battle for the WBC Super Flyweight World Championship at The Forum in Los Angeles.

Nietes, the longest-reigning Filipino boxing world champion, is ready and excited to fight in the 115-pound division after he pulled off a triumphant flyweight title defense against Argentinean challenger Juan Carlos Reveco in February.

Although less experienced than Nietes, Palicte is motivated to win his first world championship as a birthday gift to his daughter. The 27-year-old Negros Occidental native who currently holds a 24-2 professional record calls the upcoming bout as his biggest fight in hi career so far.

The following week (September 16), boxing stars Gennady Golovkin and Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez will square off once more in Las Vegas for the highly anticipated rematch after their 2017 controversial bout.

Golovkin, with stats of 38-0-1, 34 KOs to his name, has 20 straight defenses in the division and is tied with Bernard Hopkins for the record.

Meanwhile, Alvarez with stats of 49-1-2, 34 KOs, is on a campaign as a full-fledged 160-pound middleweight.

He has not lost a fight since dropping a majority decision against Floyd Mayweather in 2013.

As the fight is tipped to be one of the most exciting fights of the year, the winner will be able to call himself the king of the middleweights.

SKY is also staging another promo until September 16 for Mega Manila who are interested to enjoy good savings deals as it bundles the Golovkin vs.

Alvarez rematch with select channels.

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines has put premium on consistency while stressing to finish strong as it sets out for a firstever crack at a Premier Volleyball League championship against a fancied Far Eastern U side beginning tomorrow (Sunday) at the Filoil Flying V Center in San Juan.

UP coach Godfrey Okumu recalled how their 42 miscues hastened their downfall in the Lady Maroons’ 25-15, 23-25, 25-15, 2325, 7-15 loss to the Lady Tams in their elims meeting in the PVL Collegiate Conference last Aug. 18. The latter actually clinched the win on the former’s wayward service and two attack errors that sailed wide.

“FEU beat us already so we are coming out knowing we’ve lost against FEU once. In that game, we shot ourselves in the foot: serving out at the net, spiking out on crucial moments. So that’s what

Games tomorrow

10 a.m. – FEU vs Adamson (men’s) 12 noon – NU vs UST 4 p.m. – Adamson vs UST (best-of-3 for third) 6 p.m. – UP vs FEU (best-of-3 for crown)

we’ll talk about. Let’s not make those crucial mistakes towards the end of the game,” said Okumu.

The fourth ranked Lady Maroons actually had more than made up for that FEU setback as they bucked the odds and toppled the top seeded Adamson Lady Falcons in the rubber match of their bestof-three semifinal last week.

But ranged against team rich in championship experience, the Lady Maroons would also need grit and display endgame poise to hurdle the Lady Tams in their first-ever stint in a finale.

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor sports@thestandard.com.ph; sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

A8

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 , 2018

Sports

Less drums, but more excitement in UAAP

Golden State Warriors’ superstar Steph Curry waves to fans and the media during his appearance at the Shangri-La BGC on Friday. Peter Atencio

Curry: To improve is to evolve

By Peter Atencio

F

OR two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Steph Curry, staying in shape even while on tour in Asia, is key to his success.

That’s why the 6’3” point guard started the day by spending some time behind closed doors at the Kerry Sports indoor court inside the Shangrila-BGC. He worked out and did some shooting drills before he met members of the media and later had a day of activities with the fans.

“That’s more meaningful to me, being prepared for (the Golden State Warriors), on how we’re gonna be out there,” said Curry during a 20-minute courtside press conference.

Minutes before the media event, a shirtless Curry ran around the court,

wearing black basketball shorts and rubber shoes and going for baskets from practically all angles.

Curry said he feels he’s got a responsibility to stay in shape and improve as a player after the Warriors won their third title with him around.

“I have to make sure that everybody’s in the right place,” he said.

Curry arrived in the country on Thursday night to start off a three-nation Asian tour.

Mobbed by fans as soon as he stepped off the plane, the Golden State Warriors star point guard will be promoting his latest sneaker

under the Under Armour brand.

On Saturday, Curry will attend the UAAP opening ceremonies at Mall of Asia Arena.

Then, he will be in Wuhan in China and Tokyo.

Every day, Curry said improvements in his game matter a lot to him.

“For me, to improve is to evolve into a good point guard, balancing what I do, scoring, playmaking, getting everybody in the right spot,” added Curry.

When the Warriors won the NBA title in Game 4, he led all scorers with 37 points for a 108–85 Dubs’ win, helping Golden State take its second straight championship.

In his six years

with the Warriors, he averaged 37.7 minutes on the floor, 26.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.7 steals.

In 2018, he finished with an average of 37 minutes, 25.5 points, 5.4 assists and 1.7 steals.

Having started his day with a good workout, Curry said he is really excited what’s in store for the team in the coming NBA season that’s set to start this October.

“This is why you work hard in the off season. Putting in the hours every single day,” he added.

The Warriors has had Curry play almost exclusively at the point guard position.

He has been selected to four All-NBA Teams and voted league MVP twice.

The 30-year-old Curry is considered to be an important leader within the Warriors’ organization and is known for his humility and work ethic.

THE beat of the drums will be less, but they will not be silent.

After many years, the audience will listen to a toned-down drumbeating and a lower volume of sound coming from the brass bands in the coming 81st season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, which begins today with the men’s basketball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Executive director Rebo Saguisag explained that the sounds from drums and instruments will be more in tune with the ebb and flow of the games.

The volume of sound heard from the gallery though, is not expected to lessen the excitement for the opening game between the University of the Philippine Fighting Maroons and the University of the East Warriors at 2 p.m.

The Fighting Maroons will find how good Nigerian powerhouse Bright Akhuetie will be when he finally suits up, along with talented acquisitions like NCAA Juniors MVP Will Gozum, former Adamson University slasher Jaydee Tungcab and versatile Filipino-Amerian forward David Murrell.

Their presence in the team is adding a lot of excitement to the Fighting Maroons’ campaign since they have been down in the standings for many years, but have managed to move to fifth last season.

“As far as the UP Maroons are concerned, we can always dream of competing with the stronger programs,” said Fighting Maroons coach Bo Perasol.

With Golden State Warriors star point guard Stephen Curry expected to drop by and watch, the veterans of the Fighting Maroons, Paul Desiderio, Javi Gomez de Liano, Juan Gomez de Liano, Jun Manzo and Gelo Vito, are anticipated to put a tough stand against the Warriors.

UE will have a new coach in Joe Silva, who has steered the Ateneo Blue Eaglets to two championships in the junior division.

His presence is expected be a big help to the University of the East Red Warriors’ cause, as they try to have a better campaign after coming off a seventh-place finish last season (311 win-loss record).

The remnants of the team, which stayed on following the departure of coach Derrick Pumaren, will be made up of Wilson Bartolome, Mark Maloles, Philip Manalang, Alvin Pasaol, Jason Varilla. Peter Atencio

Jordan regains control despite last-hole miscue

Angara wants bigger allowance for PH athletes

DASMARIÑAS, Cavite—Damien Jordan romped with the best backside card among the frontrunners in wet condition but missed capping it on the closing par-5 hole as he settled for a 70 and a two-stroke lead over Angelo Que and Thai Namchok Tantipokhakul in wicked day in the Aboitiz Invitational here yesterday.

While the rest of the contenders fumbled and stumbled in rain, sun and rain – and the slow greens—heading home, Jordan came away with superb iron shots and birdied three of the first six holes at the back to build a four-shot cushion over Que, Tantipokhakul and Michael Bibat heading to the 18th of Orchard’s Palmer course.

But the Aussie ace uncharacteristically missed the green and three-putted for bogey while Que and the Thai closed out with birdies to shoot identical 71s and close the gap at two, 205207, going to the last 18 holes of the $100,000 event serving as the fifth leg of the Philippine Golf Tour Asia put up

by ICTSI. “I struggled on the very slow greens. I’m not used to that kind of condition but the rains in the morning did the damage damping them,” said Jordan, who shared the halfway lead with Zanieboy Gialon after Que blundered with a double-bogey on the par-5 18th at resumption of his rain-suspended second round play early yesterday.

Que hardly recovered from that 7, gunning down just two birdies against two bogeys in the third round but built some kind of momentum and confidence with that final hole birdie going to the final round of the annual event sponsored by Aboitiz Equity Ventures and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. He also rued his shaky putting in the first 13 holes, including a parputt miss from just about a couple of feet on No. 11 and about three or four others for birdies from short range although he bounced back with two birdies in the last five holes to tie the Thai at second.

SENATOR Sonny Angara is pushing for bigger allowance and improved sports facilities for Filipino athletes as he sought the passage of the law that raises the cash incentives for winning national athletes.

“After we moved to increase the incentives of the winning athletes, we must ensure that our national athletes have sufficient allowance,” said Angara.

“We should provide them with enough support and assistance to help them develop their potential and empower them to win,” said Angara, sponsor of Republic Act 10699 raising the incentives and benefits of winning athletes and coaches.

The Finance Committee Vice Chairman made the call after listening to the clamor of Asian Games medallists who attended the budget hearing of the Philippine Sports Commission on Thursday.

Angara asked the medallists to voice their insights on how to improve the state of Philippine sports and on how government can better help the athletes.

A number of the medallists lamented their meagerallowances.

Currently, of the 887 national athletes, more than half or 456 belong to the Training Pool receiving a P10,200 monthly allowance.

There are only eight Platinum athletes in the country today, including weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, who are getting P45,000 per month.

“Included in the allowance are their food, housing school expenses, and money to buy their sports needs,” he said.

“Marami rin sa kanila, ipinadadala sa kani-kanilang pamilya ang nakukuha nilang allowance,” said Angara, who is looking into augmenting PSC’s budget to fund a P5,000-increase in the allowance of all the athletes.

Meanwhile, gold medallist Margielyn Didal pointed out the lack of training centers in the country. Bronze medallist Junna Tsukii also mentioned during the hearing that the PhilSports Complex is already “very dirty.”

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Damien Jordan barely survives the slow greens to stay on top of the heap

Woods, McIlroy share BMW lead

PHILADELPHIA—Tiger Woods fired his lowest opening round in nearly 20 years to join Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy at the top of the leaderboard at the BMW Championship on Thursday.

The 14-time major winner Woods and McIlroy have a one-stroke lead after both shot eight-under 62 which marked the American’s best PGA first round since the 1999 Byron Nelson Classic.

Woods managed an eagle and seven birdies and his only hiccup being a late bogey on his back nine at the Aronimink Golf Course in Philadelphia.

Woods was joined in the lead by McIlroy who highlighted his round of 10 birdies with a career-best six in succession, beginning with the last hole of his front nine.

McIlroy though let slip any thoughts of a 59 when he bogeyed his 16th and 17th holes of the round.

This is the first time Woods has shared a PGA Tour lead after any round since capturing the 2013 WGC-Cadillac Championship.

Woods and McIlroy had played a ninehole practice round together on Tuesday.

“I made a few putts today and also from right out of the gate with birdies at 10 and

12 and 13 so that was a nice way to get things rolling,” said Woods, who started on the back nine.

Woods had ignited thoughts of his career first 59 after an outward nine that produced a seventh hole eagle and four birdies in a six-under par 29.

It is the sixth occasion in Woods’ career he’s recorded nine holes in 29 or better, and on four of those five prior occasions he has gone on to win.

Woods moved to seven-under par with a birdie at his 10th hole. He then parred his next five holes ahead of a 16th hole birdie before his only bogey at his 17th. He also birdied 18.

“I made some great putts out there today including getting off to a better start than I have most of the season,” he said.

“To shoot 29 on the front nine helps. It helped a lot.”

Looked refreshedWoods clearly looked refreshed after electing not to visit the course on Wednesday. He also skipped the Pro-Am due to the heatwave conditions.

“The heat is hard for me because I lose so much weight out here,” said Woods. “I lose strength and I lose power and endurance.” AFP

Tiger Woods of the United States plays a shot on the 12th hole. AFP

IN BRIEF

DBP registered profit of P2.76b in 6 months

STATE-RUN Development Bank of the Philippines, the eighth-largest bank in terms of assets, said net income in the first six months of 2018 rose 4 percent to P2.76 billion from P2.65 billion yearon-year on the sustained strength in lending and deposit activities.

DBP president and chief executive Cecilia Borromeo said in a statement Friday loans and deposits both posted double-digit expansion from January to June this year.

“We now have sufficient financial muscle to support our development banking activities and further assist critical sectors of the economy,” Borromeo said.

“The rise in our net income is a testament to the efficacy of the reforms and innovation we have made during the past several months,” she said.

DBP, which has been designated as the country’s infrastructure bank by the national government, provides loans to strategic sectors such as infrastructure and logistics, small and medium enterprises, social services and community development, and the environment. Julito G. Rada

Business

SEC okays P6.78-b offering of Cal-Comp

THE Securities and Exchange Commission approved the P6.78-billion initial public offering of Cal-Comp Technology Philippines Inc., SEC commission secretary Armando Pan Jr. said Friday.

Cal-Comp will be the second company to conduct an IPO this year after DM Wenceslao & Associates Inc. Documents from the SEC showed Cal-Comp wouild sell up to 378.071 million in primary common shares with an over-allotment option of up to 19.898 million common shares at a price of up to P17 apiece Cal-Comp plans to offer the shares from Sept. 18 to 15 and list the shares tentatively on Oct 2.

The company plans to use the proceeds from the IPO to finance expansion. Cal-Comp Tech is building new factories in the Philippines to increase production and introduce new products to the domestic market.

Jenniffer B. Austria

International reserves rise to $77.83b—BSP

THE country’s gross international reserves increased to $77.83 billion at the end of August from $76.72 billion a month ago, due mainly to inflows from the government’s net foreign currency deposits as well as income from investments abroad of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

The Bangko Sentral said in a statement Friday the inflows were partially tempered by payments made by the government for its foreign exchange obligations, foreign exchange operations of the central bank and revaluation adjustments on gold holdings resulting from the decrease in the price of the metal in the international market.

“The end-August 2018 level of GIR remains as an adequate external liquidity buffer and is equivalent to 7.5 months’ worth of imports of goods, and payments of services and primary income. It is also equivalent to 6.2 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4.2 times based on residual maturity,” the central bank said.

Net international reserves, which refer to the difference between the Bangko Sentral’s GIR and total short-term liabilities, also increased by $1.11 billion to $77.82 billion as of end-August 2018 from the end-July 2018 level of $76.71 billion.

The Bangko Sentral in May kept the reserves target of $80 billion this year, lower than the $81.5-billion level posted in 2017.

The Bangko Sentral said the reserves level by yearend would be consistent with the revised balance of payments projection of a $1.5-billion deficit from the earlier estimate of a $1-billion surplus. Julito G. Rada

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

B1

CENTURY-GLOBE INVEST DEAL. Century Properties Inc., the

holding firm of top real estate company Century Properties Group in the Philippines, and Israel’s Globe Invest, a major international conglomerate, sign a joint venture agreement for advanced energy optimization management, agriculture and urban farming, prefabricated housing, water desalination and other master-planned real estate development projects. The partnership will result in investments worth over $1 billion. Signing the agreement on Sept.

4 was Century Properties chairman Jose E.B. Antonio (fourth from left) and Shmuel Weiss (first from left) of Globe Invest in the presence of President Duterte and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez (rightmost).

Jordan firms commit to invest $60.7m in PH

THE Philippines secured about $60.67 million worth of investment pledges during the recent trade mission to Jordan, the Department of Trade and Industry announced Friday.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said the Philippine government successfully negotiated two agreements between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Jordan Chamber of Commerce for the expansion of scientific and technological relations and establishment of business linkages between Philippine and Jordanian companies.

“The agreements and pledges of interest signed today are big success for the Philippines, especially coming from zero approved investments in 2017,” Lopez said.

The Philippines also signed letters of intent with eight Jordanian companies, including that of Nafith International seeking opportunities on logistics planning and operations. Nafith plans to set up a logistics office here.

Another company, Universal Labs Ltd., plans to manufacture beauty products using minerals from the Dead Sea for export to Asian countries, while Arabia Cell expressed interest to provide mobile-related services and solutions, software and mobile development. Othel V. Campos

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

Nestlé staying put despite strong coffee competition

By Othel V. Campos

N

ESTLÉ Philippines said Friday it will continue coffee production in the Philippines despite higher cost and stiff competition by adjusting to emerging demands and introducing innovations that will address market concerns.

The company clarified its earlier statement that it may transfer its coffee manufacturing business either to Indonesia, Vietnam or Malaysia where laws and incentives are more stable than the Philippines.

“We have been operating in the Philippines for 107 years now, and we look forward to doing business here in the next 100 years. Nestlé is here to stay,” the company said in a statement.

Nestlé Philippines vice president for communications Ernesto Mascenon ear-

lier said local coffee producers needed government support against increasing import volumes.

“We’re requesting them [the government] for Train (Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion) 2 to address the disadvantage of local manufacturers who use local agricultural products against those who are importing finished products, especially from Asean,” Mascenon aid.

“Otherwise, we will close down our manufacturing here and just move on to Indonesia, Malaysia or Vietnam and import finished products,” he added.

But Nestlé said it remained committed to support the local coffee industry.

“Coffee under our Nescafe brand remains to be a core pillar for us,” the company said.

Nestlé conceded that inflation had caught up with overhead costs, especially on raw materials and electricity.

It is also mulling over an option to discontinue manufacturing Nesfruta, its powdered juice brand, due to sustained drop in sales.

Nesfruta sales declined 30 percent, year-to-date, after the government implemented a higher excise tax rate.

Prices of sweetened beverage jumped 80 percent when Train 1 took effect January 1, 2018. The price of Nesfruta increased to P16 per sachet from just P7 to P8 per 1 liter pack.

Another best selling beverage Milo, its choco malt milk beverage, registered flat sales year-to-date.

Nescafe, the company’s flagship brand, may also suffer drop in total sales. Compared with companies importing manufactured coffee products, local producers are at a gross disadvantage since sugar and electricity prices are way cheaper in other countries, Nestlé said.

The company said it would offer a list of proposed incentives for the coffee industry for consideration of the government.

Nestlé, which produces coffee products from a factory in Cagayan de Oro City, is among the companies affected by the implementation of the first package of the Train law, which imposed excise taxes on sweetened beverage.

Coffee is a core business of Nestle in the Philippines, along with other beverages such as juices, tea preparations, and milk products.

Economic managers see infπlation rate slowing down

By Julito G. Rada THE Economic Development Cluster of the Duterte administration expects inflation rate to moderate in the coming months from a nine-year high of 6.4 percent in August once the immediate measures to tame the soaring consumer prices are implemented.

Chaired by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, the EDC said inflation was expected to decelerate once these measures were in place.

With rice, fish, vegetables and meat among the highest contributors to the August inflation rate of 6.4 percent, Dominguez said “reforms in agriculture will continuously be implemented to address the supply issues causing the rise in food prices.”

“A committed effort from government in the agriculture sector to boost supply of key products and introduce policy re-

2 BPI AWARDS. Bank of the Philippine Islands accepts two awards from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas—the “Outstanding PhilPaSS REMIT Participant” award and the “Outstanding Partner for Children’s Savings Mobilization Campaign” award--for its outstanding remittance services and successful campaign to encourage more children to save. At the awarding ceremony are (from left) Monetary Board member and chairman of the board of judges Antonio Abacan Jr.; BPI senior vice president and head of Remittance and Funds Transfer Group Manuel Tagaza; BPI executive vice president and head of Financial Products and Alternative Channels Simon Paterno; BPI vice president and head of Inward Remittance Melinda Dulay; and Deputy Bangko Sentral Governor Maria Almasara Cyd Tuaño-Amador.

forms will bring down prices for all Filipino families,” Dominguez said.

He said supply issues as the cause of higher food prices was supported by data, showing the lowest regional inflation rate recorded by the Philippine Statistics Authority in the food-abundant and agriculturally productive region of Central Luzon at 3.6 percent.

“We believe that when the measures take effect, the inflation rate increase will be moderated,” Dominguez said.

The measures include the commitment of the Department of Agriculture to replicate the issuance of certificates of necessity to allow imports to be distributed in the wet markets in Metro Manila and to the other markets of the country.

On rice supply issues, 4.6 million sacks of rice available in the warehouses of the National Food Authority will be immediately released to the market

across the country. The government also expects approximately 2 million sacks of rice previously contracted to be delivered before the end of September.

The NFA Council authorized the importation of 5 million sacks that will be arriving over the next one-and-a-half months and another 5 million sacks to be imported early next year.

To address the reported shortage in Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and TawiTawi, 2.7 million sacks will be allocated to these areas. In addition, harvest has also started in many parts of the country, with the projected harvest for 2018 of 12.6 million MT of rice, the equivalent of 252 million sacks.

The economic managers have also agreed to recommend to the President to issue a directive that will further simplify and streamline the licensing procedures for rice imports of the NFA.

Jollibee buys 47% of Bayless restaurant

By Jenniffer B. Austria

JOLLIBEE Foods Corp., the biggest fast-food chain, is investing $12.4 million for a 47-percent stake in Tortas Frontera, a Mexican food venture owned by award-winning chef Rick Bayless, in a bid to take a bite of the rapidly growing Mexican food business in United States.

Jollibee said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it entered into a business venture with Bayless to build a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the US. Jollibee under the partnership agreement will invest $12.4 million in Tortas Frontera LLC, which owns the Tortas Frontera business founded by Bayless.

Bayless and other shareholders will hold the balance of 53 percent.

The transaction is subject to the fulfillment of agreed closing conditions.

Jollibee said Mexican food was a rapidly-growing and very popular segment in the United States restaurant industry with estimated sales of $ 40 billion to $45 billion in 2017.

“We at Jollibee Foods Corp. are very excited about this new partnership. We have great admiration for chef Rick Bayless for being a top chef, for being a successful restaurateur and for his philanthropic endeavors. Together with his organization and brand Tortas Frontera, we will build a significant business in the large and fast-growing Mexican food category in the United States.

This venture is very much in line with JFC’s mission: to serve great tasting food and spread the joy of eating to everyone,” Jollibee chairman Tony Tan Caktiong said.

Bayless is the founder of Tortas Frontera restaurants, which feature hand-crafted tortas, fresh-made guacamoles and hand-shaken margaritas.

Tortas Frontera, with headquarters in Chicago, Illinois, has four restaurants in the US—three in Chicago O’Hare International Airport and one at The Arc in the University of Pennsylvania.

Tortas Frontera investment is the second significant investment made

by Jollibee in the US. Jollibee in 2015 invested in US-based burger chain Smashburger for $99 million.

The latest acquisition is expected help the company achieve its target of having a 50:50 revenue contribution from overseas and domestic stores by 2023.

Nayong Pilipino deal subject to bidding THE Finance Department called as “erroneous” the claim of Rudolf Jurado, the sacked head of the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel, that the Governance Commission for GovernmentOwned and -Controlled Corporations revoked the bidding requirement for the Nayong Pilipino deal that included a casino-theme park project in Parañaque City.

Finance Undersecretary Bayani Agabin said in a statement Friday the oversight body never stated that public bidding was no longer necessary as a method of procurement for contracts entered into by state-run firms.

Agabin said GCG Memorandum Circular (MC) 2018-02, which Jurado cited to justify his claim, merely removed administrative overlays such as the submission to and approval by the GCG of a GOCC project before it is bid out.

“The governing boards of GOCCs are still required to ensure that con-

tracts are not grossly disadvantageous to the government,” Agabin, who heads the DOF’s Legal Affairs Office, said. “GCG Memorandum Circular 2018-02 did not, in any way, state that public bidding should no longer be a requirement as a method of procurement for lease contracts of GOCCs.” Jurado claimed earlier that a previous GCG circular—MC 2013-03 specified that public bidding should take place for the leasing of GOCC assets, such as the Nayong Pilipino property, but that the GCG and its ex-officio members— Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III—had revoked the bidding requirement through GCG MC 2018-02.

The former government corporate counsel cited GCG MC 2018-02 as his basis for allowing Nayong Pilipino to lease its land to a developer without the benefit of public bidding. Julito G. Rada

B2

Business

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stock market slips; MPIC rallies

S

TOCKS fell for the third straight day Friday, weighed down by lingering concerns on rising inflation and escalating tensions on trade talks overseas.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index lost 40.07 points, or 0.5 percent, to 7,598.64 on a value turnover of P6.3 billion. Gainers, however, beat losers, 103 to 89, with 46 issues unchanged.

Conglomerate Ayala Corp. declined 2.9 percent to P917, while SM Investments Corp. of retail tycoon Henry Sy dropped 2.2 percent to P938.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp., which is into toll roads, water and electricity distribution, power generation and hospitals, rallied 4.4 percent to P5.27, while JG Summit Holdings Inc. of industrialist John Gokongwei rose 2.4 percent to P57.65.

Most Asian equities, meanwhile, sank on Friday as investors fret that the US will ramp up its trade war with China by imposing fresh tariffs, while chip-makers were among the biggest losers following a sharp sell-off in New York.

Japan’s Nikkei led losses, ending 0.8 percent lower with exporters hurt by a stronger yen as dealers ran to the safehaven unit for shelter from market turmoil.

“The timing of the WSJ story is significant as it serves as a reminder before an expected Japan-US summit later this month, when trade consultations will also likely be held,” said Daisuke Karakama, chief market economist at Mizuho Bank.

Sydney lost 0.3 percent and Singapore dropped 0.4 percent. Seoul gave up 0.3 percent while Taipei shed 0.7 percent.

However, Hong Kong edged up 0.1

percent in the afternoon after fluctuating through the day, while Shanghai gained 0.4 percent by the close and Jakarta added 0.3 percent.

While emerging market contagion fears continue to stalk trading floors, Donald Trump’s protectionist drive returned to the fore following an indication Japan was next in the firing line, while NAFTA talks with Canada amble along.

There was some relief that Trump did not immediately impose levies on $200 billion of Chinese goods after the passing of a deadline for a public consultation.

The threatened tariffs would add to the $50 billion in imports already targeted and mark a major step up in the long-running battle between the world’s top two economies.

Beijing has warned it will immediately retaliate against any measures, fuel-

ing fears of an all-out trade war that is already showing signs of causing a drag on the global economy.

The president also appeared to be preparing to set his sights on Japan, with an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal saying his good relationship with Tokyo “will end as soon as I tell them how much they have to pay.”

While Trump has mostly taken out his anger with China and Europe, he has often in the past complained of an uneven trade relationship with Japan.

Chip firms joined their Wall Street counterparts in turning south on growing concerns about demand following a lowering of expectations by US giant KLA-Tencor.

Samsung sank almost three percent in Seoul while SK Hynix was 3.7 percent lower. Tokyo Electron dived six percent and Advantest was more than seven percent lower. With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2018

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 59.2 3,550 89.2 3,451,010 2.5 150,000 120.2 2,178,150 1.68 4,000 30.75 56,000 16.42 700 14.1 1,099,500 4.07 168,000 0.67 55,000 815 10 0.58 763,000 69.5 7,084,450 1.01 1,115,000 11.58 5,900 47 87,000 194 440 27.65 137,900 191.5 772,260 1,815 35 73 29,800 1.2 2,000

210,150 307,793,258.50 374,680 261,735,118 6,720 1,722,880 11,478 15,346,702 681,390 36,850 8,150 437,650 493,257,660.50 1,111,400 68,322 4,084,115 86,500 3,821,015 148,729,216 63,525 2,219,104 2,400

207,200 -2,229,040,162.50 12,500 -83,993,421 -1,107,355 218,352 -216,940,986.50 -46,320 1,467,985 -2,203,035 30,390,064 -2,134,286 -

36 16.96 1 1.19 0.214 3.13 13.94 33.65 19.1 43.05 72.7 1.78 5.15 7.5 10.08 15.5 9.5 7.19 7.03 16.12 64.25 29.65 7.15 13.08 2.11 275.4 4.86 24 12 17.42 370.2 0.183 2.08 4.02 8.9 5.32 7.85 1 11.22 53 4.8 2.4 3.09 1.67 12.5 95 5.61 1.03 140 2.45 2.05 1.81

INDUSTRIAL 37 1,597,700 17.1 547,700 1.06 11,196,000 1.24 363,000 0.224 3,820,000 3.13 16,798,000 14 473,800 33.8 919,400 19.4 19,100 45.95 900 72.7 10 1.8 5,000 5.15 800 7.54 4,000 10.12 3,581,300 15.92 905,900 9.5 62,700 7.3 2,764,000 7.03 13,800,300 16.38 751,900 65.5 51,940 29.95 424,300 7.15 498,100 13.18 734,500 2.11 188,000 281 546,950 4.88 26,000 24.1 667,600 12.1 873,300 17.5 411,800 380 272,660 0.194 270,000 2.08 9,000 4.02 14,000 9.05 1,026,100 5.54 230,600 8 16,500 1.05 1,245,000 11.46 6,200 54 378,890 4.8 9,000 2.5 193,000 3.15 28,000 1.68 256,000 12.5 378,000 97.75 733,220 5.75 59,400 1.07 471,000 144.9 1,155,340 2.45 22,000 2.13 8,754,000 1.87 6,051,000

58,614,450 9,345,476 11,774,620 438,840 853,670 52,782,800 6,633,088 31,183,970 369,414 39,550 727 8,980 4,120 30,202 36,263,456 14,326,170 595,650 20,096,803 97,104,344 12,311,400 3,374,274 12,720,535 3,584,250 9,665,868 400,640 152,068,558 126,800 16,162,625 10,555,156 7,207,478 103,111,200 49,520 18,750 56,340 9,205,283 1,254,317 131,069 1,301,570 69,860 20,448,893 43,200 480,400 87,720 428,030 4,806,514 71,418,797 336,329 494,680 166,128,997 54,000 18,587,310 11,235,020

16,288,870 -147,896 -27,530 414,100 459,910 -4,680,172 -9,234,335.00 -2,955,338 12,573,244 -3,414,842 -63,785,118 -5,253,402 2,815,965.50 21,245 3,667,822 8,600 27,181,020 -3,368,465 -5,751,144 -3,207,770 -295,376 -16,670 2,725,606 -766,670 -17,453,796 43,200 -36,000 34,236 -31,859,408 86,676,717 24,500 -2,172,220 46,000

0.415 53.45 13.82 0.92 6.1 43.55 1.4 1.39 940 6 12.6 7.27 887 57.65 0.61 5.08 16.98 0.63 5.28 3.36 0.038 1.26 2.74 177.8 941.5 0.79 1.46 400 304.8 0.335

0.4 51.6 13.18 0.9 6 36.75 1.34 1.36 900 5.96 12.04 7.01 865 54.7 0.58 4.9 16.14 0.6 5.05 3.35 0.038 1.2 2.68 174.7 920 0.79 1.45 390 291 0.33

HOLDING FIRMS 0.415 13,940,000 53.3 1,661,140 13.36 3,712,000 0.9 145,000 6.02 45,200 43.35 1,191,900 1.38 10,633,000 1.38 3,938,000 917 836,080 5.98 1,674,000 12.6 1,982,100 7.26 2,600 870.5 95,180 57.65 1,837,140 0.61 450,000 5.02 1,194,000 16.98 3,641,800 0.62 1,780,000 5.27 23,682,500 3.35 8,000 0.038 8,700,000 1.2 362,000 2.68 1,182,000 177 179,820 938 247,960 0.79 10,000 1.45 145,000 390 30 299 3,300 0.335 3,150,000

5,729,700 87,055,796 49,747,638 130,560 274,494 49,029,780 14,671,640 5,435,680 768,160,020 9,997,999 24,521,676 18,481 82,768,610 103,378,306.50 273,640 5,972,750 59,374,832 1,096,440 122,627,577 26,830 330,600 437,480 3,188,470 31,827,611 231,211,255 7,900 211,070 11,800 989,378 1,040,400

-5,641,788.50 1,064,644 263,094 -628,235.00 4,600 -395,599,115 -5,875,895 7,152,950 -38,486,760 21,140,598.50 141,310 -14,163,936 -7,141,846.00 -7,600 -249,700 13,976,124 -69,643,180 294,550 3,300

7.6 0.96 12.76 2.14 0.74 43.4 3 4.56 5.62 6.5 0.435 0.89 0.98 0.23 0.43 8.81 25.5 0.58 0.119 1.48 1.19 1.92 4.48 0.66 0.47 0.49 3.99 20.95 2

7.16 0.94 12.68 2.05 0.71 41 2.94 4.49 5.55 6.5 0.425 0.89 0.97 0.222 0.41 8.67 24.3 0.56 0.114 1.44 1.18 1.83 4.4 0.63 0.455 0.465 3.61 20.5 1.98

17,212,045 4,101,600 13,956 1,181,000 272,420 542,447,570 1,954,780 1,306,880 88,130 1,300 1,082,600 890 127,260 836,990 310,850 5,713,448 11,045,700 46,840 54,330 2,773,820 349,660 27,616,340 127,335,120 25,995,500 1,377,700 2,127,900 42,685,720 36,843,100 226,130

-3,411,276 -616,100 -157,911,555 -1,080,830 22,450 43,000 148,330 515,435 253,240 59,700 -14,520,790 -194,640 549,900 -4,401,360 -8,958,915 -

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

ASIA UNITED BANK PH ISLANDS BDO LEASING BDO UNIBANK BRIGHT KINDLE CHINABANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK FERRONOUX HLDG FIRST ABACUS MANULIFE MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH RCBC SECURITY BANK SUN LIFE UNION BANK VANTAGE

59.2 89.2 2.51 120.5 1.68 30.8 16.34 13.94 4.1 0.67 815 0.59 70 1.04 11.58 46.1 197 27.75 194.9 1,815 75.8 1.2

59.2 90.8 2.51 121.5 1.68 30.8 16.42 14.24 4.1 0.67 815 0.6 70.05 1.04 11.58 47 197 28 194.9 1,815 75.8 1.2

59 88.45 2.45 118.5 1.68 30.75 16.34 13.9 4 0.67 815 0.56 69.2 0.98 11.58 46.1 194 27.65 191.3 1,815 73 1.2

ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CNTRL AZUCARERA CONCEPCION CONCRETE A CROWN ASIA DAVINCI CAPITAL DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR ENERGY DEVT FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG GINEBRA HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE LMG CHEMICALS MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO MG HLDG PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PHIL H2O PHINMA PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL RFM CORP ROXAS AND CO ROXAS HLDG SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER TKC METALS UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VULCAN INDL

37 17.1 1 1.22 0.214 3.15 14 34 19.8 43.5 72.7 1.78 5.15 7.6 10.12 15.54 9.5 7.29 7.04 16.12 64.9 29.65 7.24 13.5 2.16 277 4.86 24.4 12 17.42 376 0.183 2.08 4.02 8.95 5.54 7.85 1.01 11.22 53 4.8 2.4 3.09 1.67 12.86 95 5.65 1.09 142.2 2.46 2.05 1.81

37 17.1 1.08 1.25 0.228 3.2 14.02 34.5 19.8 45.95 72.7 1.8 5.15 7.66 10.24 15.94 9.5 7.3 7.04 16.42 65.5 30.35 7.24 13.5 2.16 281 4.88 24.4 12.2 17.66 380 0.194 2.09 4.03 9.05 5.54 8 1.06 11.46 54.15 4.8 2.53 3.15 1.69 12.88 98 5.8 1.09 144.9 2.46 2.15 1.88

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ANSCOR ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV MJC INVESTMENTS PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA PRIME ORION SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS

0.4 52.8 13.48 0.92 6 36.75 1.34 1.36 940 5.98 12.04 7.27 886 54.9 0.6 4.94 16.68 0.61 5.1 3.36 0.038 1.23 2.7 174.7 940 0.79 1.46 400 295 0.335

8990 HLDG A BROWN ANCHOR LAND ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CEBU PROP A CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE IRC PROP MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL

7.26 0.95 12.68 2.14 0.74 42.4 3 4.56 5.6 6.5 0.435 0.89 0.97 0.224 0.41 8.81 24.55 0.56 0.116 1.44 1.19 1.86 4.45 0.64 0.47 0.48 3.7 20.95 2

VOLUME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS VISTA LAND

3.22 37.3 1.13 7.41 6.38

3.22 37.3 1.16 7.58 6.4

3.18 36.25 1.11 7.2 6.29

3.22 36.65 1.16 7.21 6.32

270,000 10,463,800 716,000 1,131,900 4,289,300

868,600 383,188,190 813,440 8,246,605 27,167,290

-167,939,185 226,000.00 630,990 1,272,173

2GO GROUP ABS CBN ACESITE HOTEL APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY BOULEVARD HLDG CEBU AIR CENTRO ESCOLAR CHELSEA DFNN INC EASYCALL GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE IPM HLDG ISLAND INFO ISM COMM LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY MELCO RESORTS METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A METROALLIANCE B NOW CORP PACIFIC ONLINE PAL HLDG PAXYS PHIL SEVEN CORP PHILWEB PLDT PREMIUM LEISURE PRMIERE HORIZON PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL SBS PHIL CORP SSI GROUP STI HLDG TRANSPACIFIC BR TRAVELLERS WATERFRONT WILCON DEPOT

13.3 23.2 1.4 0.475 0.047 2.86 9.22 0.062 73.5 8.05 6.17 8.5 23.85 2,080 5.5 317 3.46 2.11 92.4 12 7.83 0.122 2.9 14.7 4.05 1.03 19 0.435 5.23 6.14 2.68 1.94 1.9 8.06 10.98 8.8 3.51 109.8 5.06 1,424 0.84 0.43 44.7 82 8.2 2.14 0.82 0.6 5.12 0.78 11.14

13.3 23.2 1.4 0.495 0.047 2.89 9.33 0.063 74.2 8.05 6.2 8.99 24.95 2,104 5.5 317 3.55 2.11 93 12 7.83 0.124 2.94 14.8 4.06 1.03 19.3 0.44 5.24 6.44 2.75 2.04 1.99 8.15 10.98 9.36 3.63 109.8 5.06 1,430 0.85 0.43 44.7 82 8.23 2.17 0.82 0.63 5.14 0.78 11.14

13.16 22.7 1.4 0.47 0.045 2.81 9.1 0.062 73.3 8.05 6.14 8.5 23.5 2,052 5.43 310 3.35 2.11 92 12 7.8 0.121 2.88 14.68 3.95 1.01 18.96 0.435 5.17 6.14 2.64 1.94 1.84 8.01 10.98 8.8 3.51 107.1 5.05 1,411 0.84 0.405 44.2 79.7 8.05 2.12 0.81 0.6 5.1 0.75 10.84

SERVICES 13.3 23 1.4 0.48 0.045 2.81 9.33 0.063 73.7 8.05 6.15 8.99 24.3 2,104 5.5 317 3.41 2.11 92.85 12 7.8 0.123 2.92 14.68 3.97 1.03 19 0.44 5.2 6.21 2.71 2 1.98 8.03 10.98 9.3 3.63 108 5.06 1,424 0.85 0.415 44.45 80.8 8.15 2.14 0.82 0.63 5.13 0.75 10.9

36,700 25,300 3,000 7,080,000 71,900,000 1,483,000 5,485,300 6,100,000 82,050 2,500 984,000 15,100 44,600 53,450 91,700 1,180 1,999,000 5,000 623,920 2,000 12,000 2,300,000 1,639,000 11,100 212,000 198,000 510,400 80,000 28,600 2,691,200 583,000 120,000 53,000 1,315,100 300 1,300 6,000 312,280 425,900 95,445 1,615,000 7,480,000 1,022,100 398,050 31,600 2,940,000 10,209,000 15,463,000 432,400 7,121,000 6,351,800

486,510 578,560 4,200 3,405,300 3,239,700 4,191,740 50,516,688 379,010 6,050,527.50 20,125 6,071,309 134,417 1,053,555 111,675,290 500,994 373,038 6,901,810 10,550 57,874,591 24,000 93,750 280,760 4,762,240 163,100 846,970 200,240 9,698,412 35,050 148,863 16,926,023 1,567,840 236,560 99,010 10,607,920 3,294 11,596 21,300 34,227,792 2,151,879 135,497,180 1,365,470 3,129,750 45,401,890 31,887,431 256,686 6,299,060 8,347,140 9,569,660 2,213,176 5,416,810 69,402,084

241,960 28,400 3,506,904 -648,370 -2,466,354 49,230,000 -12,672 328,850 36,705,938.50 -69,360 -566,570 -5,357,598.00 -12,087,857 783,570 62,101 -199,764 -374,822 -24,774,745 454,750 20,800 -12,963,630 -11,623,807 2,159,800 1,387,350 -109,560 523,060.00 -34,378,104

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

0.0026 1.5 3.33 20.15 1.3 1.31 1.94 0.3 7.43 1.95 0.225 0.124 0.0082 1.38 4.81 1.18 0.61 1.2 0.014 0.013 0.013 3.77 4.01 14 29.6 0.0082

0.0026 1.52 3.33 20.15 1.3 1.43 1.95 0.3 7.59 1.97 0.255 0.126 0.0082 1.38 4.9 1.18 0.62 1.3 0.014 0.013 0.013 4.5 4.08 14.68 30.2 0.0082

0.0025 1.5 3.25 20 1.16 1.31 1.93 0.3 7.28 1.93 0.225 0.121 0.0082 1.37 4.72 1.16 0.61 1.19 0.013 0.013 0.012 3.77 4.01 14 29 0.0076

MINING & OIL 0.0025 45,000,000 1.51 564,000 3.26 263,000 20 18,400 1.25 186,000 1.43 118,000 1.95 450,000 0.3 20,000 7.59 16,500 1.96 3,236,000 0.241 8,300,000 0.121 1,400,000 0.0082 1,000,000 1.38 61,000 4.85 1,249,000 1.16 2,000 0.62 738,000 1.26 2,159,000 0.014 14,100,000 0.013 700,000 0.012 6,100,000 4.45 2,140,000 4.04 124,000 14.4 1,067,700 29 2,717,000 0.0079 39,000,000

113,100 852,650 867,220 368,225 232,520 155,400 873,890 6,000 124,445 6,315,880 2,027,710 173,880 8,200 84,060 6,055,100 2,340 457,540 2,696,040 183,800 9,100 73,500 9,036,030 500,640 15,363,208 79,886,250 302,300

-42,560 -100,000 -14,520 904,180 383,890.00 -3,900 -371,070 639,248 -35,269,400 -

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 AC PREF B2 DD PREF GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF A LR PREF MWIDE PREF PNX PREF 3A SFI PREF SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2I

22.55 490 500 100.5 500 5.39 951 1.05 101 100 1.92 986 76.25 79.5 75.6 75.5 76

22.55 490 500 101.7 500 5.39 951 1.05 101 100 1.92 1,000 77.25 79.6 75.7 75.5 76

22.2 490 500 100.5 500 5.35 950 1.02 100 100 1.91 986 76.25 79.5 75.5 75.35 76

PREFERRED 22.2 62,100 490 1,500 500 1,000 101.7 25,600 500 1,500 5.35 400 950 1,000 1.02 1,260,000 100 27,640 100 20,300 1.91 5,000 1,000 400 77.25 890,050 79.6 6,260 75.6 370,810 75.35 14,400 76 120

1,397,920 735,000 500,000 2,572,920 750,000 2,148 950,400 1,287,500 2,781,680 2,030,000 9,590 397,200 67,878,112.50 498,170 28,032,423 1,085,834 9,120

-1,397,920 0 10,000 -20,670 1,657,152.00 489,775.00 -

LR WARRANT

2.6

2.67

2.46

WARRANTS 2.49 327,000

824,340

-108,630.00

ITALPINAS XURPAS

6.89 2.72

6.9 2.75

6.55 2.68

6.67 2.68

25,215,646 2,730,240

211,200 10,760

FIRST METRO ETF

113.3

113.8

113.1

1,566,694

-

311,080 98,980

141,400 -

NAME

MS

PROPERTY 7.6 0.96 12.76 2.05 0.73 42.2 2.94 4.49 5.55 6.5 0.425 0.89 0.97 0.227 0.43 8.67 24.5 0.58 0.119 1.47 1.19 1.91 4.4 0.66 0.46 0.47 3.99 20.75 1.98

2,325,800 4,324,000 1,100 568,000 379,000 12,822,100 659,000 289,000 15,800 200 2,540,000 1,000 131,000 3,700,000 750,000 655,200 446,300 83,000 470,000 1,895,000 295,000 14,593,000 28,785,000 39,888,000 2,990,000 4,510,000 11,103,000 1,776,000 114,000

USD DMPL A1 USD TECH B2

10.1 1.01

10.1 1.01

TRADING SUMMARY

SHARES

FINANCIAL

17,164,178

INDUSTRIAL

83,799,190

HOLDING FIRMS

88,367,997

PROPERTY

153,908,049

SERVICES

167,005,427

MINING & OIL

131,736,962

GRAND TOTAL

646,754,447

10.1 1.01

SME

3,746,200 1,011,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 113.2 13,830 10.1 1.01

DDS

30,800 98,000

VALUE 1,716.41 (down) 6.98 1,241,828,076.85 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,243.41 (up) 115.55 1,005,709,442.26 HOLDING FIRMS 7,515.70 (down) 44.68 1,793,709,617.92 PROPERTY 3,752.23 (down) 57.89 1,525.74 (down) 0.23 1,310,164,049.39 SERVICES MINING & OIL 9,593.63 (down) 31.15 781,314,652.50 PSEI 7,598.64 (down) 40.07 126,810,493.90 All Shares Index 4,656.42 (down) 5.24 6,289,054,234.27 Gainers: 103; Losers: 89; Unchanged: 46; Total: 238

Air Asia PH defers initial public offering to mid-2019

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Philippine unit of Southeast Asia’s biggest budget airline has deferred its planned initial public offering to the middle of 2019 from the second semester this year.

“We’re still working on it but I think it might get delayed to next year. There are too many problems at the moment especially the fuel prices, the foreign exchange rate, plus the Boracay closure so probably we have to move it next year,” Air Asia Philippines chief executive Dexter Comendador told reporters Friday.

The airline earlier said it planned to raise over $250 million, with the proceeds to be allocated for the acquisition of new aircraft, building, a hangar and new headquarters in Clark.

Air Aisa tapped BDO Capital and Investment Corp. as underwriter.

AirAsia earlier reported a net loss of P391.98 million in the January-to-March period from P29.37 million year-on-year.

The budget airline’s revenues reached P5.27 billion, up 46 percent from P3.62 billion a year ago.

The company’s operating expenses rose 7 percent to P426.63 million from P399.68 million last year.

AirAsia carried 1.61 million passengers in the first quarter of the year, up 39 percent from 1.15 million passengers in the same period last year.

The airline recorded a load factor of 87 percent during the period, down 5 percentage points from 92 percent last year.

AirAsia operates several flights to/ from Manila, Davao, , Kalibo, Caticlan (Boracay), Tacloban, Tagbilaran (Bohol), Puerto Princesa (Palawan), Clark, and Iloilo in the Philippines with international flights to/from Shanghai, Taipei, Incheon (Seoul), Hong Kong, Macau, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Guangzhou, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore.

The airline also operates several international flights in Cebu, namely Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Taipei, Incheon, Shenzhen and Hangzhou.

First Gen set to redeem all $300-m notes

By Alena Mae S. Flores FIRST Gen Corp. on Friday offered to redeem by October all its outstanding $300-million, 6.5 percent fixed rates notes listed at the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading due in 2023.

First Gen disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange the company would redeem the balance of $91.69 million “at a redemption price of 103.25 percent, as set in the relevant provisions of the contract.”

First Gen already bought back some of the notes from the market as early as October last year to trim its debts.

First Gen raised $300 million through a 10-year, non-call senior unsecured bond in October 2013, a move that reflected investor confidence in the company.

The company has been embarking on initiatives to deleverage and reduce its foreign currency debt exposure.

First Gen and subsidiary Northern Terracota Power Corp. earlier tendered their 992 million and 982 million shares respectively in Energy Development Corp. to Philippines Renewable Energy Holdings Corp. for P7.25 per share.

First Gen earlier said it would use proceeds to pay debts and other projects.

The company posted $115 million (P5.9 billion) in recurring net income attributable to equity holders of the parent in the first six months of 2018, up 35 percent from $88 million (P4.5 billion) year-on-year.

Earnings from natural gas power plants jumped 45 percent to $488 million (P4.4 billion) from a year ago level.

“The gas portfolio thrived during this period, especially San Gabriel and Avion that have been able to achieve remarkable turnarounds this year as they delivered much-needed power to the grid,” First Gen president and chief operating officer Francis Giles Puno said earlier.

The solid showing from the 97-MW Avion peaking plant and the 420-MW San Gabriel flexible station as well as savings in the interest expenses offset unrealized foreign exchange losses and the renewable energy businesses’ lower earnings during the period.

Consolidated revenues from the sale of electricity increased $85 million or 10 percent to $939 million (P48.4 billion) from $854 million (P42.6 billion) on year.

World

B3

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF Uruguay’s mate gets a makeover

MONTEVIEDO-Laid-back Uruguay has long been synonymous with herbinfused mate tea, and more recently became the world’s first country to legalize cannabis―so now manufacturers are bowing to the inevitable and putting the two together.

Cannabis-infused mate is hitting supermarkets across the South American country this month as marketeers give a new twist to the bitter tasting national beverage.

The move is part of efforts to develop a spin-off industry in the small South American country, where cannabis has been legally on sale since July last year.

As medicinal and recreational cannabis gains traction across the world, Uruguay’s legalization of weed is attracting the attention of major food groups.

French spirits giant Pernod Ricard said recently it was “looking closely” at the cannabis market.

But competition is about to get a lot hotter.

G7 country Canada is set to follow Uruguay’s pioneering example and become only the second country to legalize pot next month.

Beer-giant Constellation Brands, which owns Mexican brand Corona, last month said it was injecting $4 billion into Canadian marijuana grower Canopy Growth in a bid to corner the world market in cannabis-infused drinks and other products. AFP

China’s Xi to attend summit in Russia

BEIJING―Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend a regional summit in Russia next week, officials said Friday, joining the prime ministers of Japan and South Korea at a gathering to which North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was invited.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited Kim to participate in the September 11-13 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.

Kim has not confirmed his attendance, but his participation would mark another major step in his efforts to bring Pyongyang out of international isolation over its nuclear weapons program.

At a press briefing to announce Xi’s visit, Chinese officials would not comment on whether Xi planned to meet with other leaders during the summit.

“Should we have any proposals from other countries, China will positively consider” them, assistant foreign minister Zhang Hanhui told reporters.

Kim and Xi met three times in China this year as the two countries seek to repair relations frayed by North Korea’s nuclear activities and Beijing’s backing of United Nations sanctions against its Cold War-era ally.

Xi is sending the head of China’s rubber-stamp legislature, Li Zhanshu, to Pyongyang this weekend to attend celebrations marking North Korea’s 70th anniversary, ending speculation that the Chinese president would use the occasion to make his first official trip to the neighboring country. AFP

Swedish election outcome uncertain

STOCKHOLM―Swedes voting in legislative elections on Sunday expected to see the far-right surge amid a deep rift over the integration of hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers, with the election outcome seen as uncertain.

Neither Prime Minister Stefan Lofven’s left-wing bloc nor the centerright opposition were seen obtaining a majority.

The far-right Sweden Democrats (SD), an anti-immigration party with roots in the neo-Nazi movement, are tipped to win around 20 percent of votes, according to an average of seven polling institutes published in the past 10 days, up from 13 percent in 2014 elections.

That could make SD Sweden’s second biggest party behind Lofven’s Social Democrats.

SD has capitalized on voters who feel left behind by traditional parties in favour of the 400,000 asylum seekers who have arrived since 2012, whom they believe are straining the country’s famed welfare model.

Immigration, integration, health care, the climate and education have been Swedes’ main concerns in the election campaign.

In an op-ed published in Sweden’s paper of reference Dagens Nyheter just days before the election, Lofven urged Swedes to vote for a “stable government ... capable of leading Sweden in uncertain times.” AFP

UNREST IN BASRA. Iraqi

protesters break into an official building as they demonstrate against the government and the lack of basic services in Basra on September 6, 2018. A curfew was imposed in the southern Iraqi city on the same day as a fresh outbreak of violent protests left one person dead and 35 injured, officials said. AFP

Hopes fade for quake survivors

T

OKYO-Japanese rescue workers with bulldozers and sniffer dogs scrabbled through the mud Friday to find survivors from a landslide that buried houses after a powerful quake, as the death toll rose to 18.

Around 22 people are still unaccounted for in the small northern countryside town of Atsuma, where a cluster of dwellings were wrecked when a hillside collapsed with the force of the 6.6-magnitude quake, causing deep brown scars in the landscape.

“We’ve heard there are people still

stuck under the mud, so we’ve been working around the clock, but it’s been difficult to rescue them,” a Self-Defense Forces serviceman in Atsuma told public broadcaster NHK. “We will take measures to find them quickly.”

An elderly woman in Atsuma told NHK: “My relative is still buried under the mud and has not been found yet, so I couldn’t sleep at all last night. There were also several aftershocks so it was a restless night.”

Around 1.6 million households in the sparsely populated northern island of Hokkaido were still without power after the quake damaged a thermal plant supplying electricity to the region.

Industry minister Hiroshige Seko said

that number should be reduced to 550,000 households on Friday.

“It will take about a week” before the largest thermal power plant recovers, “so during that period, we are sending powergenerating vehicles to hospitals,” Seko told reporters.

He urged citizens to conserve energy by having fewer lights on in shops and restaurants and “for example family members staying together in one room”.

Some 22,000 rescue workers including troops called up from the Self-Defense Forces handed out emergency water supplies and long lines formed at petrol stations and supermarkets, as people stocked up fearing further quakes.

“Please give your sympathy to people who spent a dark night in fear, and do ev-

‘Times’ urged to reveal author of critical article

Hong Kong’s top court frees 13 activists HONG KONG―Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal on Friday quashed jail sentences for 13 pro-democracy activists who stormed the city’s legislative council in a dramatic 2014 protest.

The group were earlier sentenced to between eight and 13 months after the government successfully sought to overturn a previous punishment of community service and seek harsher terms.

All 13 were already on bail pending their appeal.

They included democracy activists, student leaders and villagers from Hong Kong’s rural northeast who had been convicted of unlawful assembly for forcing their way into the territory’s legislature.

The group was part of a larger protest against a government plan to redevelop the area for housing, which they said was being waved through without proper consultation.

Their actions came weeks before the pro-democracy Umbrella Movement mass rallies which brought parts of Hong Kong to a standstill for more than two months.

Activists said they were “happy and excited” about the result and denied using violence in the protest.

“We had no intention at all to hurt anybody,” said Raphael Wong, one of the 13 protesters.

Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong faced more restrictions and demonstrators would have to be “well-disciplined” in future, he added. AFP

GOODBYE, BURT. Flowers are seen on actor Burt Reynold’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 6, 2018, in Los Angeles, California, following his death. AFP

‘Deliverance,’ ‘Boogie Nights’ star Burt Reynolds dies of heart attack LOS ANGELES―Burt Reynolds, the mustachioed heart-throb of 1970s cinema who won acclaim in “Deliverance” and a host of awards later in his career for “Boogie Nights,” died on Thursday, his family announced.

The famously suave 82-year-old, a huge box office draw at his peak who had a reputation as a hard-drinking playboy, reportedly suffered a heart attack and died at a hospital in Florida.

“It is with a broken heart that I said goodbye to my uncle today,” the actor’s niece Nancy Lee Hess, said in a statement sent to AFP. “My uncle was not just a movie icon; he was a generous, passionate and sensitive man, who was dedicated to his family, friends, fans and acting students.”

Reynolds, whose career spanned six decades, earned a Golden Globe,

Oscar nomination and several critics’ awards for his portrayal of porn director Jack Horner in the 1997 film “Boogie Nights.”

Last year, he also drew critical acclaim for his performance in the indie movie “The Last Movie Star.”

The actor was considered box office gold in the 1970s and early 80s with such hits as “Smokey and the Bandit,” “Starting Over,” and “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” films that were popular at the box office and often less popular with critics.

It was his breakout role in the 1972 thriller “Deliverance,” in which he plays macho survivalist Lewis Medlock, that cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s leading men in the 1970s and 80s.

The film―infamous for its hill-

erything you can to restore electricity as soon as possible,” Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told a cabinet meeting to discuss the quake.

The earthquake, which scored the maximum on a Japanese scale measuring the power of a quake’s shaking, also collapsed a handful of houses and walls in the main city of Sapporo.

However, considering the strength of the quake, the death toll was relatively light, with the majority of victims coming from the landslide in Atsuma.

Transport services were gradually coming back on line with bullet trains resuming operations late Friday morning and the main airport in Sapporo operating a partial service after cancelling all flights the day before. AFP

billy male rape scene―earned three Oscar nominations for best picture, best director and best editing. But Reynolds failed to get an Oscar nod and he would later say that his nude spread that year in Cosmopolitan probably cost him a chance at the golden statuette.

During his career, he would also become known as much for the hit movies he racked up as the big roles he turned down.

Reynolds notably walked away from playing the space scoundrel Han Solo in the first “Star Wars,” turned down the role of James Bond and declined the leading role played by Richard Gere in “Pretty Woman.”

He also rejected an offer to play retired astronaut Garrett Breedlove in the 1983 hit movie “Terms of Endearment.”

The role was taken up by Jack Nicholson, who took home an Oscar.

“I didn’t open myself to new writers or risky parts because I wasn’t interested in challenging myself as an actor. I was interested in having a good time,” Reynolds wrote in his 2015 memoir, “But Enough About Me.” “As a result, I missed a lot of opportunities to show I could play serious roles,” he added. “By the time I finally woke up and tried to get it right, nobody would give me a chance.”

On the personal front, the actor was married and divorced twice, the first time to British actress Judy Carne and the second to American actress Loni Anderson, with whom he adopted a son, Quinton. His divorce with Anderson would go down as one of the nastiest in Hollywood history. AFP

WASHINGTON―Donald Trump on Thursday called on the New York Times to reveal the name of the “coward” who wrote an explosive, anonymous article that has plunged his presidency into its worst crisis yet.

The White House has been convulsed by a fevered hunt for the senior official who declared, in an unsigned article for The New York Times published Wednesday, that “unsung heroes” were quietly working within the administration to frustrate the president’s “worst inclinations.”

“Nobody knows who the hell he is, or she,” Trump told supporters at a rally in Billings, Montana, adding: “Unidentified deep state operatives who defy voters to push their secret agendas are truly a threat to democracy itself.”

Invoking national security concerns, Trump said the paper should publish the official’s name, before encouraging reporters to investigate the matter.

“That would be a good scoop!” he said.

On the internet and in Washington, a guessing game has raged over who the author might be, prompting nearly every cabinet-ranked member of the government to deny it was them.

Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats were among those who issued denials.

“The Vice President puts his name on his Op-eds. The @nytimes should be ashamed and so should the person who wrote the false, illogical, and gutless op-ed,” Pence’s spokesman Jarrod Agen wrote on Twitter.

“Our office is above such amateur acts.”

The manifesto followed the release of excerpts from a bombshell book by Watergate reporter Bob Woodward, who portrayed Trump’s White House as an out-of-control “crazytown.”

Trump responded with a furious volley of tweets that asked if the author had committed treason while First Lady Melania Trump condemned the decision to publish.

“To the writer of the op-ed―you are not protecting this country, you are sabotaging it with your cowardly actions,” she said.

The Woodward book, “Fear: Trump in the White House,” reported that senior aides lifted documents from the Oval Office desk to keep the president from acting on his impulses, reinforcing the assertions in the Times article. AFP

Infrastructure delays cause higher construction costs

Joel D. Lacsamana, Editor jdlacsamana@gmail.com

B4

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

A DESIRE NAMED HOUSING. Industry observers believe the delays in key infrastructure projects are disadvantageous to many Filipinos who have been pushing the government for convenience, and better public service.

SLEEP TO DREAM Beds that add a unique touch to your rest

W

E all have beds, and we all need them. We spend a huge portion of our lives IN them, so theoretically, these should stand out and be just as fantastic as every other piece of furniture in the house.

Beds are not just about the mattresses you put on them. You have to think about what you put those fancy mattresses on.

BEDROOM FUNCTION The bedroom is quite the hub of activity these days – we’re spending more time in it and we’re doing more activities in it – because we’re treating it as our haven; as a place of calm, and for some of us, the only room where we can get some peace and quiet.

Bedrooms are one of our most sacred downtime spaces, yet so often they are overlooked and not conducive to a good night’s rest. Many designers now believe that modern bedrooms, and beds, allow people to take back this sacred space to help better rest and recharge.

Many Filipinos feel that their bedroom is a more comfortable space to relax in than other areas of the home.

So it’s unsurprising that it has now become a hub of activity. Increasingly, the top social activities adults are likely to indulge in while ensconced in bed include reading, watching TV or a film, scrolling through a phone, talking on the phone, and listening to music or podcasts.

TEXTURES, MATERIALS Conservative design with modern clean lines is currently defining the contemporary bedroom furniture market. Highly tactile, textured handles are being considered for depth and

character, with integrated accessories such as full length mirrors and lighting being built-in to the front of wardrobes for added value and practicality.

PERSONALISATION There is a desire for the home to be designed with more individuality. With this in mind, the bedroom should be the most personable space within the home.

You can effortlessly achieve uniqueness by mixing and matching bedroom finishes.

BIGGER BEDS More and more people are buying bigger beds. While sales of standard double beds are still up, king sized bed purchases have increased, indicating a

PROPERTIES AT THE PALM OF YOUR HAND. Hi+, a one-stop home information portal that gives access to information about Idesia properties, was recently launched for Idesia home buyers and owners. Hi+ or Home Info Plus allows users to get information relevant to the Idesia home ownership process without the need of additional hardware. Users may access their home info through this simple mobile app which can also be downloaded on a tablet. Idesia Dasmariñas is a joint venture between Lagunabased developer PA Properties and real estate giant Hankyu Hanshin Properties Corp. of Osaka, Japan. It has community of over 900 housing units in Dasmarinas, Cavite which is comprised of single detached homes, single attached homes and townhouses. With Hi+, users can check the status of their reservation up to move-in, including buyer’s account information all the way to occupancy and move-in dates. Hi+ can be downloaded from google playstore.

change in consumer behaviour.

HAMMOCKS, FLOATING BEDS Its origins lost in antiquity, the hammock has been a popular and practical alternative to terra firma sleeping arrangements for thousands of years.

Slung between walls on a series of heavy-duty chains, a double-sized hammock can be an eye-catcher, a room centerpiece and a sheer joy when it is time to sweep the floor.

For those who aren’t keen on being grounded a bed float may be just what the doctor ordered. Not only can it be fully dismantled in a jiffy, it could be also designed to look as if it’s touching the ground as little as possible.

THE delay in the completion of current and future infrastructure projects under the government’s ‘Build Build Build’, including the building of modern and environmentally-friendly baseload power plants, combined with the weakening of the peso, is resulting in the increase of the cost of construction materials in the Philippines.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS HIKE The increase in prices of construction materials in Metro Manila averaged 1.5 percent in the first half of 2018, according to data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Based on the Construction Materials Retail Price Index (CMRPI) in the National Capital Region, the average hike in construction-material prices in 2017 was higher than the 1.3 percent posted in the same period in 2017.

The CMRPI tracks the price of 102 commodities classified into seven major groups—carpentry, electrical, masonry, painting and related compounds, plumbing, tinsmithry and miscellaneous construction materials.

SPIRAL EFFECT While a weak peso is good for the country’s export industry, and for Filipinos with relatives working overseas due to a higher peso-dollar exchange rate, it is pulling up investment costs to power plant projects. This particularly true for new, or greenfield developments, where a number of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts are still ongoing negotiations, or yet to be awarded.

Large generation companies (Gencos) are concerned that the increase in EPC or overall project costs of power plants might create spiralling effect on electricity consumers.

Some of these gencos have power projects in the pipeline, primarily those who still have pending regulatory approvals on their power supply agreements (PSAs), a crucial government permit to start construction of power plant.

Industry sources say almost everything is in place for the building of these plants, from financing, EPC, BOI (Board of Investments) approval, connection agreements with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, LGU (local government unit) support, and O&M (operation and maintenance) joint venture agreements. What is missing, observers say, is for these gencos to commence construction of their respective power plants pending the Energy Regulatory Commission’s approval of the PSA’s.

REPLACE AGEING PLANTS There is a need to build more power plants to replace the country’s our ageing plants to ensure the country has energy security to support future economic expansion.

Currently, about 60% of the country’s operating power plants are older than 15 years, or more than half its life span of 25-30 years.

DOE is projecting the country will be needing 43,765MW of additional power-generation capacity by 2040 to meet increasing power demand as the economy continues to expand.

HEADS UP FOR HOSPITALITY BIZ SHOWCASE. The ninth edition of the Hotel Suppliers Show will kick off on September 20 to 22 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. The show will coincide with the Food & Beverage Suppliers Show, and Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment Philippines.

The 9,800+ sq. meter expo will be fronted by major sponsors such as Globalinens Worldwide Inc., Hafele Philippines, Harle Philippines, Pacific Paint Boysen Philippines, and Tosot Philippines. Three industry related symposiums will be held: The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) conference, hosted by the Philippines Institute of Interior Designers (PIID); the National Building and Property Management Summit, a conference for business and trade professionals from the property and construction sector; and the Building Green Conference by the Philippine Green Building Council. The local hospitality industry has been growing stronger each year. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) said the travel and tourism sector contributed a total of P3.35 trillion to the Philippines’ economy, accounting for about 21 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in the year 2017. The industry is expected to rise by 5.9 percent for this year.

CAVITE SHOPPING ESCAPE. The soon-to-rise Acienda Designer Outlet mall, located in the Silang-Tagaytay growth corridor, recently got a boost with an announcement from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that the Aguinaldo interchange of the Cavite-Tagaytay-Batangas Expressway (CTBEx) project will be located beside the facility. DPWH Sec. Mark Villar (Seen here at center) attended an event at the site which awarded Metro Pacific Tollways South Management Corporation (MPTC) the original proponent status for the CTBEx project, a 50.42-kilometer highway that will connect the West Silang Interchange of the ongoing Cavite-Laguna Expressway to Tagaytay City and Nasugbu. The project, estimated to cost P22.43 billion, will have another seven main interchanges including Silang East, Pook, Amadeo, Mendez, Alfonso, Magallanes and Nasugbu. According to MPT South chief financial officer Christopher Lizo, at least two sections of the CTBEx are expected to open by 2022. “The project will cut travel time to Nasugbu, Batangas, where the usual trip of one hour and 42 minutes will be shortened to 44 minutes, while traveling to Tagaytay through Sta. Rosa will take only about an hour instead of two and a half hours,” Villar explained. Acienda designer outlet will be divided into four clusters designed to offer shopping and dining at affordable prices. It is a partnership between Cathay Land and international Outlet developer and operator Freeport Retail from the UK.

Life

bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @mstandardLIFe

young life

saturday, september 8, 2018

Modern-day Filipino heroes T

C1

Through the social media nominations he Philippines is a nation a heroes, from patriots who fought that ran from June to July, the global apfor the country’s independence to those regular individuals on parel retailer identified and collaborated the street helping better the lives of other people and the society. with some of Manila’s most promising

As a proof there’s plenty of heroes here at home, fashion brand Uniqlo Philippines introduces its Future heroes—10 local game-changers and innovators who help move Manila forward.

Future heroes is part of the retailer’s Our Future Is here campaign, launched prior to the opening of the first Uniqlo

flagship store in the Philippines at Glorietta mall in Makati on Oct. 5.

The campaign draws a parallel among Uniqlo products, its brand values, and the character of Manila. It is a city that is full of life, diverse, and always moving forward—characteristics that align perfectly to the brand and its LifeWear.

individuals and groups from a range of industries and backgrounds.

The chosen individuals star in a series of digital and graphic pieces alongside Uniqlo influencer Pia Wurtzbach and Atom Araullo. here are the 10 innovators and disruptors who are re-inventing their industries and driving change around Manila:

The 39th Manila International Book Fair will feature numerous books at discounted prices.

Beat the crowd and come in early to easily navigate through the booths.

Leeroy New

Contemporary artist and designer with a passion for creative collaborations tied to social and urban development.

Cecile Dominguez-Yujuico

entrepreneur and NGO worker at Teach for the Philippines, who is passionate about maximizing the use of technology for social good.

Sam Lee

Film director, multimedia editor for CNN Philippines Life, and a passionate advocate for women’s and LGBTQ+ rights.

Jolo Marcelo

Free runner, parkour ath-

lete, and freelance videographer whose passion for movement has pushed him to explore Manila from a different view.

King Puentespina (CRWN)

Music producer whose passion for innovative music helps push the local music scene forward.

Aya Fernandez

Student, dancer, and social entrepreneur whose passion led her to start Project Lily Ph, which aims to provide livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Eloiza Fagsao

Student and captain of the University of the Philippines’ Women’s Football team with a passion to share her leadership skills to her peers.

10 tips to maximize your MIBF experience The country’s biggest and longestrunning book fair, Manila International Book Fair, is happening on Sept.

12-16 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay.

For its 39th installment, the MIBF invited over 100 exhibitors, ranging from local indie publishers to big bookstore chains. The book fair has also prepared a lineup of events such as book signings, book launches, meet and greets, storytelling sessions for kids, special contests, workshops, and other activities to cater to bookworms both young and old. In addition, happening is the very first POP hUB: Comic Splash x Fandom Fest on Sept. 15-16 excited yet overwhelmed? here’s a survival guide to help you make the most out of your MIBF trip this year.

Get comfy. With two floors of exhibit space, cover more ground by wearing clothes you can easily move in.

Put on your trusty pair of rubber shoes for maximum comfort.

List, list, list! Book shopping sprees are fun, but overspending isn’t. Make a list of all the books you’re planning to buy beforehand to help yourself stay within budget.

Bring trolleys and big bags. With so many publishers and distributors at MIBF, there will be lots of sales and discounted items. Bring sturdy tote bags or trolleys to help you carry your book purchases.

Come early. The earlier you come, the less crowd there will be and the easier it will be to navigate through the abundance of booths.

Check out children’s and YA books. The second floor of SMX will be a haven of books for younger readers. Find exclusive sales and new re-

leases to take home as pasalubong for the little ones, or for your own reading enjoyment.

Get your books signed. Keep an eye out for book signings from local and international authors. Check out the social media pages of National Bookstore, Anvil Publishing house, PSICOM Publishing, and more and jot down your own list of absolutely-cannot-be-missed book signings.

Attend book launches. Many authors will be gracing the MIBF to launch their books. Take note of launch times and dates and work your schedule around these MIBF-exclusives. Keep posted on details from local publishers like Visprint, Adarna house, Precious hearts Romances, OMF Literature, and many more.

Represent your fandom. The MIBF weekend will be buzzing with activities for every fandom, so make sure you can be recognized. Whether you’re a Potterhead, Trekkie, hamilfan, or others, take pride in your fandom to geek out with fellow fans and make friends across fandoms at the Pop hub: Comic Splash x Fandom Fest.

Attend talks and workshops. The MIBF isn’t just about coming in, buying books, and leaving. Learn something new by attending talks and panel discussions by authors, artists, and even enthusiastic fans, or get your hands dirty at the many art workshops lined up at the MIBF. Support local artists. Aside from the many local authors at the MIBF, independent artists will be showcasing their works at the Artist Lane, located in the Pop hub. Show your support by purchasing stickers, prints, fanmade art, and original works from various artists.

Arts Serrano

Architect and escolta advocate and resident who is passionate about bringing to life stories through the spaces he builds.

Turn to C2

Seminars, workshops, and other events are lined up at this year’s MIBF on Sept. 12-16

Life

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saturday, september 8, 2018 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

GRANNIES ON FB. Millennial volunteers teach senior adults about smartphone and social media to help them connect with loved ones and enjoy the good things available on the Internet.

‘Millenniors’: Grandparents get tech savvy

“S

IxTY is the new 40.” This isn’t just a catchphrase for people trying to keep aging at bay. Scientists affirm that what was considered old, say, a century ago, is no longer so today.

Besides living longer, healthier lives, today’s old folks have characteristics of younger people, according to one study.

For instance, more grandparents are now on social media sites. In fact, a recent study by Pew Research Center revealed 62 percent of online American adults aged 65 and above are on Facebook. here in the Philippines, tech-savvy grannies are also increasing in number. Telco firm Smart has dubbed them “millenniors,” or seniors who are techsavvy like millennials.

To help more senior citizens connect with their loved ones, Smart developed a program to guide them in the proper use of smartphones and instruct them about mobile data, social media, and online video streaming.

“I log on to Facebook and catch up with my grandchildren and their ‘millennial’ things,’” said Paz Pangilinan, a senior from Barangay 734 in Paco, Manila, where the Smart Millenniors program had its pilot run last year.

Meanwhile, Dorina naldo, secretary

of the Barangay Dalipuga Seniors’ Association in Iligan City, is a regular YouTube user. “I never imagined I could listen to songs of my favorites, Victor Wood and Tom Jones, which are seldom played on radio these days. The best part is, I can play them anytime,” she exclaimed.

Smartphone and social media have spared Virginia Pangilinan, 80, the strenuous road trips just to see family members living elsewhere.

“Thanks to Facebook, I can now talk more often to relatives abroad whom I haven’t seen in a while,” said Lilia Cos, 60.

These women all participated in the Smart Millenniors program, conducted across the country with the help of student volunteers from Manila, Cebu, and Iligan City, particularly, Adamson University, Coalition for Better Education and EduStudio in Cebu, and Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology School of Computer Studies-Executive Council.

Program participants included resi-

dents of barangays 734 and 672 in Paco, Manila; barangays Dalipuga and Santiago in Iligan City; and members of the Philippine Association of Retired Persons in Cebu.

The program offered lessons as well for the volunteer trainers, mostly millennials.

“Like us, seniors are also looking to learn new ways to improve their lives,” said Shun Camannong, of Adamson.

“We just have to listen to what they’re saying, and be open to their questions.”

Jomari Ferolino of Cebu, a school teacher, said he found the interaction with the “once-young” quite fulfilling.

It reminded him of his parents. “I realized I needed to teach them as well about technology.”

“This activity only proves one thing: Learning is ageless,” said EduStudio director Mardy Verano, who trained the Cebu volunteers. “When one is a learner, one can be anyone he or she wants to be. It has to do with attitude. And with technology, it gets even better.”

For promoting the teaching of technology among seniors and engaging the youth in this endeavor, the Smart Millenniors program won an Award of Merit at the recent 16th Philippine Quill Awards, and a Silver Anvil at the 53rd Anvil Awards in March.

Grandparents may avail of free medical consultations on Grandparents Day on Sept. 9 at Araneta Center.

Love your lolos and lolas ThERE is nothing quite like the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren as it transcends generational differences.

On Sept. 9, Grandparents Day, Araneta Center fetes this familial link in “Junior & Senior Day: Celebrating the Bond of Grandparents and Grandchildren” at the Gateway Mall, Ali Mall, and Farmers Plaza.

For a minimum single receipt purchase worth P500 from any Araneta Center establishment, a grandparent and their grandchild will get the chance to participate in the activities and avail of the services and souvenirs in the three malls.

At the Gateway Mall, elders who em-

body youth in both their look and outlook will get the chance to be “modelolos” and “modelolas” as they walk in the fashion competition “Look Young, Feel Young Outfit Contest.”

Seniors who still love to sweat out and stretch their muscles will also have a grand time at the Zumba sessions at the Ali Mall and Farmers Plaza.

Medical check-ups and wellness talks will also be conducted in the three malls.

Grandparents and their grandchildren may also participate in various games that will put their teamwork to a test. handsome prizes will also be drawn.

Visit www.aranetacenter.net or follow Araneta Center’s social media pages for more information.

Modern-day...

From C1

Business tycoon-philanthropist Hans Sy has made it his advocacy to help cancer-stricken children as he donated in 2015 the Childhaus 2, a seven-story building in Paco, Manila.

How two philanthropists provide home for sick children WhEn a philanthropist understand a fellow business tycoonphilanthropist’s advocacy, a beautiful partnership happens.

It was in 2010 when hans Sy, while watching the news, saw his father’s loyal and long-time building tenant crying over an eviction letter on television. Beauty salon magnate Ricky “Mader” Reyes’ foundation charity, Childhaus, was being evicted from their home inside the Quezon Institute compound in Quezon City.

Childhaus, which stands for Center for health Improvement and Life Development, is an organization that temporarily houses cancer-stricken children while undergoing medical evaluation and chemotherapy in Manila, usually at Philippine General hospital.

These children stay at the center with one family member free of charge as they go to and from the hospital for their treatment.

The beneficiaries of Childhaus with Sy.

The patients also receive subsidies for their medicines, lab tests, and other items like clothes and other necessities.

Volunteers and donors who saw the place and its residents gave and came regularly, like teachers, actors, members of the media, and even salon clients.

When Reyes received the eviction notice from PCSO, which provided his charity a home at Quezon Institute, as the compound was being sold to a real estate developer, it came suddenly, including the cutting of electricity.

When media brought the news to the public’s attention, silent donors came forward, including the wife of a mayor. It was also this time that Dr. Rachel Rosario, an anesthesiologist and pain specialist came on board.

Reyes spent months looking for a place to transfer the center, but, he shared, whenever landlords found out that the house would serve as a transient home for cancer patients, Mader was immediately refused.

While Reyes was looking for a place, Sy was also looking for a house for the center. The scion was able to find one where Childhaus stayed for three and a half years, before finally moving to a permanent place near PGh—the Childhaus 2, a seven-story building at Agoncillo St., Paco, Manila.

Sy used his personal savings to donate the building in celebration of his 60th birthday in 2015.

“In the past years, I would reward myself with something special on my birthday,” shared Sy. “It could be an expensive watch or a painting. Then it hit me.” he said that while these things made him feel good, they didn’t make him a better person. Putting up this new home is hans Sy’s way of extending his love and understanding to these brave children who fight for their lives every day.

Toyo Eatery

A contemporary Filipino restaurant led by chef Jordy navarra whose passion for food has led him and his team, made up of May navarra, JP Cruz, Kate Evangelista, and Steve Jotham hansen, to champion local cuisine and transform everyday dishes into fine dining experiences.

The Escolta Block

Composed of artists and entrepreneurs namely Vince Africa, Reymart Cerin, Carmel Laurino, Mikki del Rea, and Aliver Cedillo, the Escolta Block breathes new life into Manila’s historic streets by showcasing contemporary Filipino culture through music, art, and food.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

C3

nickie.standard@gmail.com

Simply...

ABS-CBN broadens

From C4

Soap bubbles that levitate Ayra Mariano returns to help out Chris Tiu, James and Roadfill in creating soap bubbles that levitate and in demonstrating pixilization by continually shredding a picture.

The Street Genius crew employ a sports car to perform the table cloth pull trick while hoping no dishes break.

They also make bread from ice cream and flour.

I-Bilib partners once more with the DOST by highlighting amazing inventions of Phil. Science High School students from the 2018 National Science and Technology Week.

And in “Huling Hirit,” the barkada becomes instant artists by crumpling paper and coming up with shadow art!

All these on your favorite science show every Sunday morning on GMA. HBO Asia and Viu partnership Today, HBO Asia and Viu, a leading OTT Video service by PCCW and Vuclip, announce that the Viu Original The Bridge licensed by Endemol Shine Group, will be available on HBO Asia’s channels and services throughout Asia.

From Nov. 26, the show will be available day and date on Viu in all available markets and on HBO, HBO GO and HBO ON DEMAND in the following countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Fans of Viu Originals will now have the opportunity to view this latest adaptation of global phenomenon, The Bridge, on multiple platforms.

“HBO Asia is committed to quality original local programming and working with Viu on The Bridge’is another step towards that,” said Jonathan Spink, CEO, HBO Asia.

“This adaptation of The Bridge will add to our ever-growing line up of Asian Original content that will resonate with audiences in the region and around the world.”

“Our approach is not just to produce great content, but also continue investing in the local ecosystem by providing a platform for sustained growth. It is great to partner with HBO Asia on the Bridge, because they share our vision and passion when it comes to Original content,” said Kingsley Warner, country manager Malaysia and executive producer of The Bridge, Malaysia and Singapore.

Viu is working with longtime partner, Double Vision, to produce a MalaysiaSingapore localized, 10-episode adaptation of global phenomenon, The Bridge, starring Bront Palarae, Rebecca Lim, Cheryl Samad and Tony Eusoff.

It will be directed by Lee Thean-jeen and Jason Chong. A body is found on the border of two countries, Malaysia and Singapore, forcing an investigator from each country to work together to solve the case. This is a licensed format from international production and distribution house, Endemol Shine Group and is a compelling storyline, which lends itself to great localization.

The Bridge (Bron/Broen) was originally created and written by Hans Rosenfeldt as a joint production of Sweden’s Filmlance International, part of Endemol Shine Group and Denmark’s Nimbus Film. The Bridge (Bron/Broen) was produced in coproduction with Sveriges Television, DR, ZDF German Television network, ZDF Enterprises Gmbh, Film i Skåne, NRK, Copenhagen Film Fund, Lumiere Group, Stiftelsen Ystad Österlen Filmfond, with from Norvision and in co-operation with Malmö Stad.

nationwide ratings leadership—Kantar Media

A

BS-CBN’s TV offerings continue to draw more viewers nationwide as the TV network launched three new top-rating shows and ruled in national TV ratings in August, with an average audience share of 44 percent, or 12 points higher than GMA’s 32 percent, according to data from Kantar Media.

The Kapamilya network remained victorious in both urban and rural homes, particularly in Metro Manila where it recorded 41 percent versus GMA’s 28 percent. ABS-CBN also ruled in Total Luzon with 40 percent, compared to GMA’s 36 percent; in Total Visayas with 51 percent versus GMA’s 26 percent; and in Total Mindanao with 52 percent, beating GMA’s 26 percent.

Multinational audience measurement provider Kantar Media uses a nationwide panel size of 2,610 urban and rural homes that represent 100 percent of the total Philippine TV viewing population.

FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano (41.7 percent) once again topped the list of most watched programs, followed by Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids (34.8 percent).

Also part of the top ten list are TV Patrol (31.2 percent), new primetime series Ngayon at Kailanman (29.9 percent), Bagani (29.6 percent), MMK (28.4 percent), Wansapanataym (25.7 percent), Home Sweetie Home (24.9 percent), and The Blood Sisters (21.6 percent).

ABS-CBN also ruled across all timeblocks, particularly in primetime as it scored an average audience share of 48 percent, or a 16-point lead against GMA’s 32 percent. The primetime block is the most important time of the day when most Filipinos watch TV and ad-

Celebrity...

From C4

Samsung invited celebrity couples to share their best memories together. This challenge kicked off with each pair talking about their first encounter. The entertaining and relatable stories they’ve posted teach everyone that one never knows what will cause that first spark.

Here are some of the highlights.

The way to the heart is through the stomach For volleyball star Mika Reyes and actor Jerome Ponce, their first date conversation led them to a mutual love for Korean cuisine.

“One of our topics was our food preferences, like if we’re both interested in certain food or not,” says Mika in her Instagram post. The two now go hopping from one Korean restaurant to the next.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE Saturday, September 8, 2018

ACROSS 1 Free pass 5 Pleasantly warm 10 Diminishes 14 Aroma 15 Suffuse 16 Mrs. Charles 17 Senor’s son 18 Panorama 19 Nullify 20 Lobster tails 22 Casual wear (hyph.)

24 Unlucky gambler’s note 25 Rayed flower 26 Hannibal’s city 30 Bawl out 33 Cinemax rival 34 Psych out 36 Prepare dough 38 Lean against 40 Layered rock 42 Alike 43 Acapulco cash 45 Inventory 47 Kind of story 48 Dog plaints 50 Rejuvenates 52 Reindeer herders 54 Land in “la mer” 55 Roof support 57 Freeloader 61 “The King and I” actress

62 Halos, of sorts 64 Computer fodder 65 Intertwine 66 Jack, in cards 67 Old Dodge model 68 Consumer gds.

69 Replaced a button 70 No-hitter king DOWN 1 Cheats 2 “Garfield” dog 3 “— Lisa” 4 Gain 5 Makes camp 6 Surrounded by 7 FedEx units 8 Mongrels 9 Brewers’ buys 10 Vicinity 11 One lacking manners 12 Londoner for short 13 Bummed out 21 — and aahs 23 Mild expletive 25 Makes effervescent 26 Guy 27 Convent 28 Waken from sleep 29 Slangy ladies

31 Pay to use 32 Pythias’ friend 35 007’s prep school 37 Society newbies 39 Without charge (hyph.)

41 Outshone 44 Run-in 46 Thousand, as a prefix 49 Talks 51 Ballpark employee

53 Lop off branches 55 Follow the newspapers 56 Rainbow shapes 57 Keep 58 Strong, as venison 59 Famed lava spewer 60 Cloudburst 61 SAS competitor 63 Windy and cold

Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia, lead stars of ABS-CBN's latest primetime drama, 'Ngayon at Kailanman.'

vertisers put a larger chunk of their investments in to reach more consumers effectively.

The Kapamilya network also led the morning block (6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon) with an average audience share of 41 per-

cent versus GMA’s 32 percent; the noontime block (12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m.) with 43 percent, compared to GMA’s 33 percent; and the afternoon block (3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) with 43 percent, beating GMA’s 36 percent.

“Whether we become thin or chubby, as long as we’re not hungry!” says Jerome in his post.

Friends know better Fashion blogger and social media star Laureen Uy and businessman boyfriend Miggy Cruz were introduced during a casual night out so they “didn’t get to talk so much,” says Laureen in her post.

But when they met again in a music festival, it was all sparks. “We ended up talking the entire night. Even on that first night, I could already tell that we were compatible,” shares Laureen. It turns out that a friend sneakily took a photo of the pair during their first meeting, and the image is now one of the blogger’s favorite images to look back on. Sometimes one’s friends just know.

A lot of patience goes a long way Fashion designer Camille Co’s boyfriend, businessman Joni Koro, had to do a lot of waiting even before they went out on their first date. “It actually took him one month to finally be able to take me out on a date because I was constantly out of the country,” says Camille in her post. Turns out he’d have to do even more waiting during their actual date: 45 minutes worth to be exact. “I later found out he’s a stickler for punctuality, but he must’ve liked me a lot because that didn’t stop him from asking me out again.” All’s well that ends well.

Must Love Dogs A great first date conversation is an excellent sign that the relationship can head somewhere—and if that first date conversation revolves around a mutual love for fourlegged friends, could anything be sweeter?

“Dogs were one of the topics that Mel and I first talked a lot about,” says actor Rocco Nacino of his first date with now girlfriend and volleyball champion, Melissa Gohing. “That alone kept the conversation running the whole night!” he says. The two now co-parent two adorable “furry babies” (as Melissa calls them in her post), whose wagging tails dominate the social media feeds of the pair.

Stay tuned for more stories in the coming weeks from these couples (and more!) as they capture new memories perfectly with the Samsung Galaxy J8.

Available in black, purple, and gold variants, the Galaxy J8 also provides access to exclusive benefits via the Samsung Members app and anti-theft function through Find my Mobile. Also get quick emergency access via the Samsung 321 app. To know more, visit any Samsung-authorized store nationwide or visit facebook.com/SamsungPH or samsung.com/ph .

ARIAS ALWIN IGNACIO

Lukewarm welcome to TOFarm's harvest YES, it is a bewilderment and a puzzlement not to see the figure head of the TOFarm Film Festival 2018, Dr. Milagros OngHow, who was conspicuously absent in the press conference wherein the announcement of its third year was heralded.

Adding another veil of mystery, for those who have been in attendance of the many media conferences mounted by Dr. How and her former media teams, this is the first press activity that transpired in a smaller venue, a vintage house transformed for adaptive reuse, a restaurant.

What a downer! No more hobnobbing and tete-a-tetes in a posh hotel. Members of the media in attendance were only a handful. Representatives from the major broadsheets, mouthpieces from cinema portals, and specimens from the motion picture blogging community were scarce.

Another observation, it used to be that all the cast members of films participating in the festival, arrive in full force, to launch their charm offensive and mingle with the media in attendance.

In the recent press conference, the only actors with recall present were Katrina Halili, Epi Quizon, Kiko Matos and Richard Quan. All the rest, were newbies and unknowns.

Also, since this festival has already found its niche and supporters, how come the media con happened just two weeks prior to the festival date?

When the late film master Maryo delos Reyes was its festival director, the press conference occurred a month in advance, with publication visits afters and news about the festival sustained and strategically released and posted.

Thus, I cannot help but wonder, are all these not just indicators but signs that the TOFarm Film Festival 2018 is down-sizing?

Or, will they paint a different picture come opening night as it will be held in a luxurious venue with director Maryo’s classic and well loved film Magnifico, serving as film in exhibition and tribute. Films in competition are the following: 1957 , a historical drama shot entirely in Iriga. Stars Ronwaldo Martin, Richard Quan, and Menggie Cobarrubias. Hubert Tibi, writes and directs.

Alimuom, a futuristic sci-fi flick by Keith Sicat. Its main premise, in the not so distant future, due to environmental degradation, planting is forbidden. In the Sicat film are Ina Feleo, Epy Quizon, Mon Confiado, Kiko Matos, Elora Espanoand Dido de la Paz. Kauyagan , shot in Mindanao is part of this year’s film harvest. Julienne Ilagan directs with major cast Jefferson Bringas,cPerry Dizon and Bayang Barrios.

Another set in the future flick, Mga Anak ng Kamote with Katrina Halili, Alex Medina, Kiko Matos, Carl Guevara and Lui Manansala. Director is Carlo Enciso Catu, screen play by John Carlo Pacala.

Pokwang and Joey Marquez headline Sol Sol Searching, the film entry predicted to create a box office stir. Roman Perez Jr. directs and writes.

Possible major award winner is the cross cultural romance, Tanabata’s Wife. Its main story arc, amateur Japanese man and his relationship with his farm worker, a farm maiden from the Bontoc cultural community, All the films will be shown at SM Megamall, SM Manila, Robinson’s Galleria, Trinoma, Greenbelt 1, Gateway, Gaisano Davao, at Robinson’s Legaspi. Aawards night will be on Sept. 15 a Makati ShangriLa. See you at the movies.

Entertainment

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

C4

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2018

SNAPSHOT ISAH V. RED

‘Tanabata’s Wife’

gets push from Japan Foundation

ONE of the entries to the upcoming To Farm Film Festival on Sept. 12 to 18, get’s the much needed boost from The Japan Foundation Manila that pledges its support for Tanabata’s Wife.

It is one of the six finalists in this year’s ToFarm Film Festival, an annual farming advocacy project of Dr. Milagros How, MD, president of the ToFarm Film Festival Foundation.

Now on its third year, the film festival will be in major cinemas nationwide.

Inspired by Sinai Hamada’s short story of the same title, Charlson Ong’s Tanabata’s Wife tells the story of Tanabata, a Japanese immigrant farmer in the 1920s Trinidad Valley in the Mountain Province. He meets and falls in love with Fasang, maiden farmhand in Bontok. He marries her and soon bears a son.

But all is not too well between the two as personal, cultural and language differences get in the way of their relationship.

Will love eventually prevail against all odds?

The film features renowned international Japanese actor Miyuki Kamimuraas Tanabata and introducing Mai Fanglayanas Fasang, Tanabata’s alluring wife.

Directed by Charlson Ong and my friend Lito Casaje, with cinematography

by Nap Jamir, editing by Mayi Padilla, production design by Martin Masadao, and line produced by Choy Pangilinan, the resonance of this poignant and lyrical film still rings true today as Japanese farmers in Baguio would entice this time Filipino farmers to tend their farms in Japan.

Ably supported as well by the University of the Philippines Film

'Tanabata's Wife,' is a film based on a short story of the same name

Institute, Tanabata’s’ Wife premieres on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 2:30 p.m. at the Trinoma Cinema.

Tickets are available at the cinema ticketing office.

What’s FOMO? If you have #FOMO or “Fear of Missing Out” when it comes to hilarious TV moments, make sure to tune in to Regine Velasquez-Alcasid’s well-loved show on GMA, Sarap Diva!

You will definitely not miss out on catching up and bonding with Kapuso fan favorites Ruru Madrid and Kyline Alcantara.

Comedian Tetay will also provide endless punch lines as they all talk about the joys of stress-free days, and they will all give tips on how to have a cost-free fun bonding time at home.

For your weekly dose of interesting and drool-worthy recipes, make sure to catch Kyline’s Seafood Chowder in a bun and get ready to serve that delicious comfort food to your family and friends.

Of course, along with the great cooking and bonding moments, make sure to catch great singing moments with the Asia’s Songbird!

Catch it all this Saturday morning, only on GMA! Sarap Diva also airs on GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life.

Continued on C3

ON A MISSION. Actor Martin del

Rosario in a scene from the pilot telecast of 'Uniporme,' a 'heroserye' that highlights the stories of the unsung heroes of the uniformed force.

VERY WANG

P

NICKIE WANG

EOPLE draw inspiration from many sources including from those who have done incredible deeds but are not given enough credit that they deserve.

For PCSupt. Rhodel Sermonia, many modern-day heroes are unheard of because mainstream media are too focused on something else. Hence, with co-host and producer Leonora Sy, they are training the spotlight on men in uniform, a show that started as an advocacy to give honest members of the PNP, the armed force, MMDA, and other uniformed force the recognition they deserve for their sacrifices and heroic acts.

“We wanted to appreciate and give tribute to our unsung heroes. That is our first consideration. And secondly, we wanted our fellowmen to see our uniformed men’s sacrifices in fulfilling their jobs, that sometimes they even risk their lives in the name of service,” Sermonia remarked.

Entitled, Uniporme, the weekly series premieres today at 3:00 p.m. on GMA News TV. Each episode, the show introduces new member of the uniformed force whose story is equally inspirational and worth the attention of the public.

In the pilot telecast, actor Martin del Rosario portrays PO2 Adolfo Andrada, a survivor of the ill-fated Special Action Force (SAF) mission in Mamasapano.

“The story itself starts with PO2 Andrada as a child and how he envisioned himself as a man in uniform, then we feature his training until the encounter that left his comrades sacrificing their lives,” Martin started.

According to the 25-year-old actor, it’s not the first time he’s going to essay such role but playing PO2 Andrada was extremely difficult and challenging.

“He is a hero that’s why I feel proud and privileged to portray the role. But I would have to admit, our first taping day was already bloody. It’s already full of action and if you think wearing a bulletproof vest is easy, it’s not. It’s quite heavy, it’s like you’re carrying some hollow blocks around your body,” Martin confessed.

More than the life PO2 Andrada, the

Celebrity couples reveal their first impressions of each other

TRAINING the spotlight on men in UNIFORM

SOMETIMES first meetings can mean everything for the relationship. Lucky couples felt rainbows, butterflies, and all other romantic (sometimes comedic) feelings of joy. For others, it was luckier that first impressions didn’t last.

Everyone has made initial judgments of their partner, and admittedly, not all put them in the best light. This was the case for TV personality Slater Young and now fiancé, fashion blogger Kryz Uy. “He thought I was too prissy, and I thought he wasn’t for keeps,” says Kryz. “She thought I was cocky, and I thought she was prissy,” echoes Slater. “Tthankfully love isn’t just about first impressions… but I still think she’s prissy,” says Slater. Fast forward three years, and the pair are now headed down the aisle. “Here we are killing our selfie game in our matching OOTDs and laughing at each other 24/7!” says Kryz.

Continued on C3

pilot episode that Martin stars in would like to underscore the heroic deeds of SAF members, how brave they were and what sacrifices they were willing to take for the sake of their comrades and the community that they served.

“Most people only know the heroes in text books, but we have a lot of heroes, modern-day heroes. They wear uniforms, not just the police, we have fire fighters, doctors, nurses, there are so many of them who make a difference in this world,” he said.

Apart from Martin, future episodes of Uniporme will feature Rodjun Cruz, Dianne Medina, Jeric Raval, Rich Asuncion and Andres Vasquez.

Martin del Rosario with fellow actors Rodjun Cruz, Jeric Raval, Dianne Medina and Rich Asuncion with 'Uniporme' hosts PCSupt. Rhodel Sermonia and Leonora Sy.

Stars grace #MeTime campaign launch FORMER beauty queen Shamcey Supsup, GMA network stars Kris Bernal, Thea Tolentino, Ayra Mariano and Marika Sasaki were among the personalities that attended the grand launch of Watsons Philippines’ #MeTime campaign held at SM Aura in Taguig City.

The campaign, which is on-going at all branches of Watsons, encourages women, including men, to give themselves the precious gift that they truly deserve —a time for themselves.

“I’m Busy! This is everyone’s favorite line. We glorify being busy because we are pressured to achieve a lot, all at once: to climb the corporate ladder, take care of our family’s needs, raise children, and manage the household all while curating our lives into a perfect feed on social media,” Watsons says in a statement.

Like the top health and beauty brand, Shamcey’s husband, Lloyd Lee, encourages her to devote some time for herself especially that they’re expecting their second child anytime soon.

“I’m a full-time mom. My husband is willing to give me 20 minutes to devote to my beauty regimen,” Shamcey said adding that she uses Celeteque products to care for her skin.

With #MeTime, Watsons introduces a full line of beauty and health options that can make someone have a little check of their lifestyle. And here’s a quick guide on how you can enjoy this this self-caring phi-

losophy.

Make Time for #MeTime Whether you are a stay-at-home parent or a professional with a killer schedule, you need to pause, take a break, and make time for #MeTime. The reason is simple: You owe it to yourself and to those you care for to take time to recharge and be your beautiful and healthy best.

Pamper your skin What better way to spend #MeTime than lavishing your neglected skin with love?

Watsons’ range of products from Ponds, Olay, Neutrogena, St. Ives, Belo, Celeteque, Mediheal, Snow, and Garnier have all the skin-pampering love to keep your complexion fresh and radiant.

Revitalize your hair

The perfect place to spend some #MeTime effortlessly? In the shower, of course!

Treat your strands to Watsons’ hair products from Creamsilk, Palmolive, Lauat Shampoo, Suave, Dove, and Moringa and give your locks a luxurious #MeTime treat.

Get gorgeous Take some #MeTime to swipe on some lipstick or paint your nails! Watsons’ extensive collection of cosmetics from Celeteque, Belle, and Chic Bobbie will get you gorgeous in no time.

Nourish from within There’s no other way to put it: To be truly beautiful, you need to be healthy. That’s why your #MeTime must also include taking care of yourself from within with Watsons’ range of supplements and health products

GMA artists Ayra Mariano, Marika Sasaki, Kris Bernal and Thea Tolentino

Celeteque ambassador Shamcey Supsup

from Enervon, Cosmo Skin, Poten-cee, MX3, and Salonpas.

Busy is the enemy of Health and Beauty Are you too busy to be beautifully healthy? All it takes is a trip to Watsons to curate a set of health and beauty revitalizers and treat yourself to some welldeserved #MeTime! Plus, if you’re an SM Advantage Card holder and purchase at least P500 worth of products, you can even win an iPhone X while you’re at it.

Less stress. More self-love.

At the end of the day, making time for #MeTime is all about stressing less and loving your beauty, health, and wellness more. At a time when everyone is busy with bucket lists and to-do lists, don’t forget to make time for that one person who deserves all the extra TLC you pour out to everybody else: Yourself.