Manila Standard - 2018 July 29 - Sunday

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ILOILO'S ICONIC LANDMARK

VOL. XXXII • NO. 164 • 4 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

SOLON: RULING PARTY MONOLITH CRACKING

By Maricel V. Cruz

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HE membership of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan will soon be reduced drastically amid confusion over leadership following the separation of many members from party leaders, Senator Aquilino Pimentel III and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez who they expelled from the party, a House official said on Saturday.

“With this development, PDPLaban may be marginalized on the face of the political landscape. Or, if not, its membership will tremendously dwindle,” House acting majority leader and Capiz Rep. Fredenil Castro told a news forum at the University of the Philippines Hotel in Quezon City.

Castro made the statement after regional and city officials of the PDP-Laban elected a new set of leaders in what they called a ‘national assembly,’ and expelled Pimentel and Alvarez, who were both ousted in their leadership positions in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Turn to A2

MINORITY BLOC INSISTS ON STATUS QUO 'BLOOD MOON' DAZZLES SKYGAZERS PARIS—The longest “blood moon” eclipse this century dazzled skygazers across the globe Friday, coinciding with Mars’ closest approach in 15 years in a thrilling celestial spectacle.

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MOONLIGHT SERENADE. A picture shows the full moon during Saturday’s “blood moon eclipse” beside a statue of ancient Greek goddess Hera in central Athens. Not seen in the Philippines because of covetous clouds, the 21st century’s longest lunar eclipse was a weekend spectacle that was far more than an astronomical sight and seen as a 'signal' for other things. It began on July 27, coinciding with Mars’ closest approach in 15 years to treat skygazers across the globe to a thrilling celestial spectacle. AFP

HOUSE Minority Leader Danilo Suarez on Saturday dared his critics to elevate the issue of minority squabble to the Supreme Court as he maintained his grip as minority leader despite questions on his loyalty when he supported Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to become the House leader.

“If they have something against that, then they can just go anywhere. They can even go to court and question that... file charges and find the necessary action they want to do,” Suarez said.

“Nobody will stop them,” he added.

Suarez said it was still status quo as far as the House minority leadership was concerned. Turn to A2

OZAMIZ CITY FUGITIVE BACK TO FACE RAPS

POLICE officials on Friday night brought back fugitive Ozamiz City Councilor Ricardo “Ardot” Parojinog into the country from Taiwan, where he was arrested for traveling with fake documents.

Parojinog arrived with his escorts at about 9:55 p.m. on board Philippine Airlines Flight No. PR 897 from Taipei.

He was brought to the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City where he underwent booking procedures.

Parojinog supposedly used a bogus Bureau of Internal Revenue ID and professional driver’s license under the name Alberto Garcia Cruz in slipping out of the country.

Ardot is the brother of Ozamiz City mayor Turn to A2

ALL-POINTS BULLETIN. Fugitive

Ozamiz City councilor Ricardo Parojinog has the long arms of his police escort round him as he arrives Thursday night at the Naia Terminal 2 in Pasay City from Taiwan where police escorted him back to the Philippines to face charges. Norman Cruz

OMBUDSMAN FISCAL'S MURDER SUSPECT KILLED POLICE have launched an inquiry into the alleged suspect-grabbing-gun-from-cops incident Saturday where the man, accused of killing a government special prosecutor, was himself killed in what some observers described as a weird situation.

Reports heard over a private radio in Manila suggested the suspect, 31-yearold Angelito Avenido Jr., was supposedly being transferred to the Quezon City jail Turn to A2

Angelito Avenido Jr.

UN, MISUARI HAIL BANGSAMORO LAW THE secretary-general of the United Nations Antonio Guterres has complimented what he called the “landmark signing” of the Bangsamoro Organic Law as an achievement on the road to lasting peace in the southern Philippines.

In a statement released by Guterres’ spokesman Stephane Dujarric in Manila, the UN official said “The Secretary-General welcomes

the signing into law of the Organic Law for Bangsamoro in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on 26 July, a landmark achievement on the road to lasting peace in southern Philippines.”

“The Secretary-General congratulates negotiators for the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Bicameral Conference Committee, the

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Bangsamoro Transition Commission and civil society groups for their efforts,” the statement added.

It said: “The United Nations will continue to support the Philippines in the implementation of the law, and to help build the capacity of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority as an effective conduit for peace, democratic governance and human rights.”

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SHORELINE SWIM. Tourists enjoy some refreshing dip beside the scenic shoreline in Tinoto, Maasim, Sarangani dotted by mangroves that protect the southern environment. Sonny Espiritu

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SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SOLON:...

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But these PDP-Laban officials retained President Rodrigo Duterte as the party chairman and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Go as party auditor.

Castro said the current unrest in the ruling party might prompt the PDP-Laban members to rejoin their former parties or join the regional party Hugpong ng Pagbabago of Davao City Mayor and presidential daughter Sara DuterteCarpio.

“It's either they will rejoin their former political parties or they will join the Hugpong ng Pagbabago ng Mayor Sara Duterte,” said Castro.

He added the HNP might soon emerge as the dominant political party amid reports that PDP-Laban members in the House of Representatives were planning to shift to Duterte-Carpio’s regional party.

“Considering the development in PDP, there is nothing that will prevent the Hugpong ng Pagbabago to amend their (sic) constitution and by-laws and make it as national party,” Castro said.

Meanwhile, Castro said the Arroyoled House would have new leaders next week.

Castro said the committees that would likely be affected by the revamp included the House committees on rules, accounts, and justice.

Castro did not name names but a House source said the position of majority leader was a tug of war between Camarines Sur Rep. Rolando Andaya Jr. and Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco.

Velasco was earlier groomed to be the Speaker.

As of last week, Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas said he was still the majority leader and the chairman of the House conmittee on rules.

While the House accounts committee will likely be given to Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr. to replace Batangas Rep. Elenita Ermita-Buhain, and the justice committee, currently chaired by Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali, is reportedly given to Leyte Rep. Vicente Veloso, vice chairman of the House committee on justice.

Castro could not tell yet if the chairmanships and memberships of the 72 regular and special committees “will be replaced.”

“What I further understand is that the new chairmen must enjoy the trust and confidence of the Speaker,” Castro told a news forum.

Castro said the House appropriations committee, chaired by Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles, would stay in his post.

MINORITY...

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“There is only one position that was taken up for approval of the plenary: the position of Speaker; and the rest is status quo,” Suarez added.

In related developments: • Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman had said the upheaval in the House, which resulted in the installation of Arroyo as the new Speaker replacing Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez had caused the resurgence of “quirks of politicians” happening in “damaging and embarrassing frequency.”

“That’s his opinion...there is only one position that was taken up for approval of the plenary: decision to have a new Speaker, and the rest is status quo,” Suarez told GMA News Online via phone interview.

“Even the Majority leader is status quo. We may not agree with what happened, but that’s their position and it’s all right,” he added.

• Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Saturday said the recent squabble for the House speakership left him perplexed.

“My eyebrows jumped to my forehead. If it were in showbiz, it’s like ‘What? Why? Why now?,” Sotto said in a radio interview.

Suarez voted for Arroyo for speakership and he was a staunch ally of the Pampanga congresswoman in her nineyear presidency from 2001 to 2010.

Lagman said “the pertinent rule of the House of Representatives explicitly provides that those who vote for the winning Speaker constitute the majority.”

This developed as acting majority leader of the Arroyo-led House, Capiz Rep. Fredinil Castro, said the ongoing controversy on who would constitute the minority at the Lower House might affect the legislative mill, and advised the concerned parties “to resolve the conflict among themselves.”

“Under our Constitution, the minority and majority group must maintain the check and balance. Without that, Congress cannot move without the minority neither the majority. The House will not function, insofar as passing legislation and doing its official function,” Castro said. Maricel V. Cruz

'GIVE NEW OMBUDSMAN CHANCE TO DO HIS JOB'

By Maricel V. Cruz

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“I would take a page from former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, who earlier said that Ombudsman Martires deserves a chance to prove him self. His record as a judge and Justice is self-evident. But he deserves to be allowed to show what he can do,” Tambunting said.

But for opposition and Akbayan party-list Rep. Martires’ appointment was “eerily unpleasant and disturbing in the fight against corruption.”

“If we go by Ombudsman Martires’ track record, he made decisions that favored the powers that be who are now his benefactors. Such decisions have raised suspicions on where his allegiance lies or whether he can be independent to render fair and impartial justice,” Villarin said.

“If Martires wants to prove his detractors wrong and convert the non-believers, his first move is to

declare his independence and cut off ties with whoever he owes a debt of gratitude. As former Ombudsman Carpio Morales said, ‘make the impossible possible’,” he added.wever Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, however, said that Martires “must be lauded for his commitment” to make the Office of the Ombudsman independent from any political influence.”

“Only time would tell on the seriousness and efficacy of Martires’ commitment as he is urged not to repeat past controversial decisions, as a Justice of the Sandiganbayan and the Supreme Court, which were perceived to have favored the powers-that-be,” Lagman, also an oppositionist, added.

Detractors earlier panned Martires for his perceived lack of independence, on account of his previous decisions when he was associate justice of the Sandiganbayan and later, the Supreme Court.

Atienza said he is counting on Martires “to do what is right,” as President Duterte asked him to.

“But of course we are also aware that, as Albert Einstein put it, what

is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right,” Atienza said.

The Constitution mandates the Ombudsman “to investigate on its own, or on complaint by any person, any act or omission of any public official, employee, office or agency, when such act or omission appears to be illegal, unjust, improper, or inefficient.”

Based on congressional records, Atienza said the Ombudsman receives around 9,000 new criminal and administrative complaints against wayward officials every year.

The records also show that in 2017 alone, the Ombudsman filed 2,447 indictments or formal charges against errant officials before the Sandiganbayan, docketed 3,153 fact-finding cases and received 30,917 requests for assistance.

Malacañang designated Martires as the country’s seventh Ombudsman on July 26, replacing CarpioMorales who completed her sevenyear term on the same day.

Martires, 69, was President Duterte’s first appointee as associate justice of the Supreme Court.

self-determination.

He maintained the BOL encompassed faith, religious belief, culture, and tradition, including political affiliations of leaders in Mindanao so genuine peace would be achieved in the island.

President Rodrigo Duterte had announced earlier the need to unify all Moro fronts in the southern Philippines so real peace would be achieved.

Misuari, whose MNLF forged a peace deal with Manila in 1996, is currently cooperating in the government-MILF peace process that could eventually lead to the establishment of a federal form of government in the country, which the Duterte administration had been pushing.

Jaafar said a committee had been formed to reach out to Misuari and his leaders, while assuring elected officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao the BOL was just an expanded form of the current ARMM. ARMM Regional Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong of the first district of Lanao del Sur pointed out that a provision of the BOL clearly stated that elected officials would remain until their term ends when the new political entity would be eventually set up on the island.

Regional lawmakers, Adiong said, were not banned from seeking election in the new Bangsamoro parliament under the BOL. The new law says 50 percent of government officials in the new political entity under the BOL will come from the MILF. Earlier, civil servants in the ARMM expressed apprehension that they might lose their jobs when the BOL is fully implemented in the region, where seven of 11 regional government agencies would be abolished.

Jaafar said the new government would not be discriminating in se-

lecting government workers and assured that those who would be affected would be remunerated accordingly.

The BOL is a result of the final peace agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

But Duterte said he would like to talk to Misuari for a possible separate autonomous region for his group.

The ARMM was created as a result of the final peace agreement between the government and the MNLF. “I can create also an autonomy for him if that’s what he wants, and pending the federal system implementation, he can just wait for it if he trusts me,” the President said.

The BAR’s territorial jurisdiction includes the ARMM area (Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao), six towns in Lanao del Norte, 39 barangays in North Cotabato, Cotabato City and Isabela City in Basilan.

The BAR will receive a yearly “block grant” of about P60 billion, which is equivalent to 5 percent of the net national internal revenue tax collection of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and Bureau of Customs from the third fiscal year immediately preceding the current fiscal year.

“I believe this is the dawn of a new beginning for Mindanao; a dawn of peace followed by unhampered prosperity for our region, that I’m sure could catapult our economy to double-digit growth rates, and the effects felt all throughout the country,” Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri said.

The Bangsamoro Parliament, to be headed by a chief minister, will govern the BAR. The Chief Minister must be elected by 80 members or representatives, of which at least 40 are party representatives.

The other half must be divided

into district representatives and sectoral representatives.

Seats will be reserved for members of the non-Muslim indigenous peoples, such as the Teduray, Lambangian, Dulangan Manobo, B’Laan and Higaonon.

The BOL provides that a plebiscite must be held not earlier than 90 days and no later than 150 days after the effectivity of the BOL. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority should be composed of 80 members appointed by the President.

“Personnel in the education, health and social welfare offices shall be retained during the period of transition,” Zubiri said.

Ghadzali Jaafar, chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission that drew up the draft BOL, said he was “happy” with the measure.

“It may be not a perfect law, but it is good to start with,” Jaafar said.

With PNA

AWMAKERS on Saturday appealed to critics of newly- appointed Ombudsman Samuel Martires to give him a chance to do his job.

“Justice Martires has a very tough mission ahead of him. Let’s give him the chance to do his job,” Buhay Party-list Rep. Lito Atienza said.

“Our impression of the new Ombudsman is that he is a fair-minded person who will uphold the law without bias or prejudice,” Atienza added.

Administration and Negros Occidental Rep. Albee Benitez echoed Atienza’s view.

“Justice Martires’ appointment as the new Ombudsman is a good choice. He is a man of integrity,” said Benitez, chairman of the House committee on housing and urban development.

Parañaque City Rep. Gus Tambunting, meanwhile, is upbeat on Martires’ appointment to the position that was recently vacated by Ombudsman Conchita Morales.

UN,...

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In related developments: • Residents of Cotabato City will vote against joining a new autonomous region for the Bangsamoro if a plebiscite were held today, its mayor said Saturday.

A Moro Islamic Liberation Front official said his group would campaign hard to convince Cotabato City, which had twice refused to join the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

“We will overcome all obstacles because for the MILF, there is no other option except Cotabato City must be delivered. Insha Allah,” said Mohagher Iqbal, head of the MILF panel implementing its 2014 peace agreement with the government, describing the city as a “crown jewel.”

At the same time, the MILF is reaching out to other stakeholders in Mindanao, including non-Muslims, Indigenous Peoples and even Nur Misuari to solicit support for the Bangsamoro Organic Law. Misuari is head of the Moro National Liberation Front.

“Even the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, we will reach out to them,” Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chair for political affairs, said in a radio interview here Saturday.

The BIFF is a breakaway group of the MILF formed by the late Ombra Kato, who had expressed impatience over the delayed peace process in Mindanao. It became outlawed and fractured into smaller groups before its mother organization publicly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State.

Jaafar, concurrent chair of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission that drafted the proposed enabling law that will create a new political entity for Moro people in Southern Philippines, said the MILF did not claim sole ownership for the success of the struggle to gain the right to

OZAMIZ...

From A1 Reynaldo “Aldong” Parojinog, killed in an anti-drug raid

by CIDG and Ozamiz City Police operatives last year.

Parojinog’s arrest in Taiwan came 10 months after he secretly left Ozamiz City following the death of his brother Reynaldo and his wife Susan and 14 others in a raid by PNP operatives last September.

Prior to his arrest in Taiwan, the Ozamiz City councilor was being hunted for his alleged involvement in illegal drugs trade and complicity in other unlawful acts in his turf.

PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde had said the fugitive would be subjected to booking procedures, medical examination and subsequently transferred to the concerned court that issued the warrant for his arrest.

Albayalde said Parojinog’s repatriation would be considered vital to investigators, particularly on matters relating to who facilitated his travel to Taiwan, among others.

Probers would also try to unravel his potential networks and the magnitude of the illegal drugs trade. PNA, Francisco Tuyay

'BLOOD...

From A1 As Earth’s constant companion slowly sailed across the skies, crowds gathered around the world to catch a glimpse of the rare phenomenon.

Beside Lake Magadi, 100 kilometers (60 miles) southwest of the Kenyan capital Nairobi, young members of the Maasai community watched the eclipse through a high-powered telescope provided by a local couple.

“Until today I thought Mars, Jupiter and the other planets were in the imagination of scientists,” Purity Sailepo, 16, told AFP. “But now I’ve seen it I can believe it and I want to be an astronomer to tell other people.”

Unlike with a solar eclipse, viewers did not need protective eye gear to observe the rare display.

For about half the world, the moon was partly or fully in Earth’s shadow from 1714 to 2328 GMT—six hours and 14 minutes in all.

The period of complete eclipse—known as “totality”, when the moon appears darkest—lasted

OMBUDSMAN...

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from Camp Karingal when the gun-grabbing scenario happened.

He was reported to be with five other unidentified inmates.

It was not clear if the suspect was in hand-cuffs at the time, but the reports said he allegedly tried to grab a gun from his police escort.

Avenido, accused in the killing on June 4 of Ombudsman Assistant Special Prosecutor Madonna Joy Tanyag, was rushed to the East Avenue Medical Center, with gunshot wounds between his neck and chin, where he was pronounced dead soon after arrival.

from 1930 to 2113 GMT. At the same time, Mars hovered near the moon in the night sky, easily visible to the naked eye.

Amateur astronomers in the southern hemisphere were best-placed to witness the rare sight, especially in southern Africa, Australia, and Madagascar, though it was also visible in Europe, South Asia and South America.

More than 2,000 people including many children armed with binoculars gathered in the Tunisian capital of Tunis.

“I hope this eclipse will bring us happiness and peace,” said Karima, 46, without taking her eyes off the sky.

However, bad weather thwarted the cosmic display in several parts of the world.

Widespread monsoon rainstorms and thick clouds hid the moon across much of India and its neighbors, which should have had a prime view.

Similarly, eager observers who had assembled on cliffs and beaches in the English county of Dorset were left in the dark due to an overcast sky.

“It’s disappointing,” Tish Adams, 67, told AFP. “I took a few photos but there was nothing but a streak of pink in the sky.” AFP

News BOC SEIZES P25 MILLION WORTH OF SMUGGLED RICE IN LAGUNA

By Vito Barcelo THE Bureau of Customs seized some P25 million worth of smuggled rice in a raid of a warehouse in Calamba, Laguna.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña said that more than 10,000 sacks of rice imported from Thailand and Vietnam were found in a warehouse in J.P. Rizal Street, Calamba, Laguna.

“The BOC-Enforcement and Security Service conducted a surveillance to validate the presence of the alleged smuggled rice. Upon confirmation of the presence of rice, I immediately issued a letter of authority to inspect and visit the said warehouse,” Lapeña said.

The smuggled rice is consigned to the Marcelo Rice Trading while the warehouse is owned by a certain Henry Uy and Jason Feng.

The warehouse owner and the con-

signee were not on the premises during the raid. ESS agents found the company accountant, identified as Janice Peng.

“No documents were presented to show evidence of payment of duties and taxes and the corresponding import permit,” the BoC chief said.

“The interested party is given 15 days to prove or show the source of the goods and the payment of duties and taxes. If they fail to do so, the goods will be seized and subjected to forfeiture proceedings,” he said.

Lapeña said the National Food Authority did not issue import permit to Marcelo Rice Trading.

“Despite the need to address the rice shortage in the country, it is also our mandate to protect the interest of the government and the people especially our own rice farmers.

SOLON SEEKS CREATION OF PH DIABETES CENTER

By Maricel V. Cruz

COCO LEVY FUND. Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator Romulo dela Rosa (left) discusses the issue on the pending coconut levy fund bill and its possible impact on coconut farmers during a news forum held at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, while deputy speaker Rep. Fredenil Castro is expected to tackle the legislative priorities under the administration of newly installed House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Manny Palmero

SPD COPS CONDUCT DRIVE VS ‘LOITERERS’

By Joel E. Zurbano

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HE government’s campaign against so-called ‘tambay’ or street loiterers continue with the arrest of 304 individuals, most of them minors violating the city curfew ordinances, in the southern part of Metro Manila on Friday night.

Supt. Jenny Tecson, spokesperson of the Southern Police District, said 141 of those apprehended violated the curfew on minors, 91 were caught smoking in public and 34 others

were nabbed for drinking in public.

She said 27 men were also arrested for being half naked and four others were caught urinating in public.

Tecson said of the 304 arrested, 111 were fined, 11 were charged with violation of city ordinance and 12 others were detained.

She added that the SPD, in close coordination with the local government units and barangay officials, conducted the operations from 9 pm of July 27 to 5 am the next day in the cities of Parañaque, Pasay, Taguig, Makati, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa, and the town of Pateros.

SPD chief Tomas Apolinario said the SPD is supporting the government’s campaign initiated

by President Rodrigo Duterte to go against idlers to get rid of people loitering in the streets, especially at night.

“But we won’t tolerate our personnel from going beyond of their authority expected of them,” he said.

Apolinario reminded his men that they should arrest only those who will violate municipal or city ordinances like Urinating and Drinking in Public Places, Half Naked, Making Loud Noise, and Curfew of Minors, among others.

However, authorities clarified that the police can question any suspicious person loitering but not necessarily violating any specific above cited ordinance regarding their presence and business in the area.

These persons should not be apprehended but instead be advised to be cautious or rather leave the area so as not to be victimized by lawless elements.

MMDA DEFERS NEW POLICY ON PROV’L BUSES THE Metro Manila Development Authority on Saturday announced the deferment of the actual implementation of a new policy regulating the entry of provincial buses along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue from Aug. 1 to Aug. 15.

MMDA general manager Jose Arturo Garcia Jr. said the agency is in talks with Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board regarding the modification of routes of provincial buses coming from the north and south.

“There are some lines that we need to modify for the convenience of the passengers. We will discuss the routes with LTFRB officials on Monday,” said Garcia.

Garcia said that the MMDA is considering the possibility of banning select provincial bus routes on Edsa from Balintawak to Magallanes with the opening of Valenzuela Interim Terminal, also on Aug. 15.

“The route of select provincial buses coming from the north has to end at the Valenzuela terminal.

However, nothing is final yet. We have yet to identify and recommend the routes,” said Garcia.

Provincial buses coming from the south that do not have terminals in Pasay City would be directed to use the agency-operated Southwest Interim Provincial Terminal in Parañaque City.

In the meantime, Garcia said they would extend until Aug. 14 the dry run activity for provincial bus regulation.

From July 24 to July 27, more than 477 provincial buses have been flagged down and warned during the dry run.

As previously announced, provincial buses would be banned from traversing along EDSA from Pasay City until Cubao in Quezon City, from 7 am to 10 am and from 6 pm to 9 pm, on weekdays starting Aug. 1. Joel E. Zurbano

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SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

A PRO-ADMINISTRATION lawmaker on Saturday pushed for the passage of a bill creating the Philippine Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology to enable the government to fight against the so-called silent killer disease—diabetes.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymumd Villafuerte, author of House Bill 7861, said the creation of the PCDE is necessary for the country to have primary institution in the treatment of an estimated five million Filipino diabetics.

In filing the bill, Villafuerte said the proposed PCDE, which will be under the Department of Health, shall serve as the lead tertiary-level center in the screening, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes in the country.

“While diabetes is generally preventable and treatable, it has grown into a silent and fatal disease that has “cost our people and this government so much in healthcare expenses,” said Villafuerte, vice chairman of the House committees on appropriations, and local government.

Citing data, Villafuerte said among the countries in the Western Pacific region, the Philippines ranks fifth—behind China, Indonesia, Japan and Thailand—in the number of diabetics. This makes the Philippines an official diabetes hotspot, he said.

“This bills targets the prevention of certain types of diabetes, and its early detection to reduce the number of affected individuals, and to provide treatment as soon as possible. It also seeks to provide support to diabetics and their loved ones in coping with this disease,” he added.

Under the measure, the PCDE shall also ensure that there is an organized, comprehensive, and optimal system of care and treatment for patients with diabetes and other endocrine problems among hospitals and other medical institutions in the country, he said.

Villafuerte said the PCDE is also authorized to design programs that “shall promote, encourage and engage in medical and scientific research on the prevention and treatment of diabetes and other endocrine diseases and gather, compile, and publish the findings of such researches for public dissemination.”

The National Nutrition and Health Survey showed that the prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the Philippines for the last 10 years has grown from 3.9 percent to 17.8 percent, or by nearly 20 percent, which means that one out of every five Filipinos could potentially have diabetes mellitus or pre-diabetes.

‘NINE PEOPLE DIED DUE TO TYPHOONS’ TREE PLANTING. Top officials of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System lead the annual million tree challenge

recognition and pledging day on July 27, 2018 at the MWSS compound where they conducted a tree planting activity. The officials present during the activity were (from left) lawyer Patrick Lester Ty, chief, MWSS regulatory office; Geodino Carpio, chief operating officer, Manila Water; Ferdinand dela Cruz, president and CEO, Manila Water; Alain del Pascua, undersecretary, DepEd; Reynaldo Velasco, MWSS administrator; Rodolfo Garcia, DENR undersecretary; Ramoncito Fernandez, president and CEO of Maynilad; David Azurin, project operations head of La Mesa Watershed and Romeo Roderos of MWSS. Lino Santos

4 EX-GENERALS LEAD ‘MILLION TREE CHALLENGE’ FORMER battle-tested soldiers have formed themselves into a group to wage another kind of warfare—mitigate the effects of climate change through massive tree planting nationwide.

The group is composed of Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu, DENR Undersecretary Rodolfo Garcia, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Administrator Reynaldo Velasco, and Congressman Leopoldo Bataoil.

They made the commitment at the Annual Million Tree Challenge Recognition and Pledging Day at the MWSS compound in Balara, Quezon City on Friday.

Incidentally, the four of them are former soldiers, graduates of the Philippine Military Academy, and veterans of the Mindanao War. Cimatu was commander of the 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army when the 2000 Mindanao War broke out. It was his unit—the 4th Infantry Division—that was responsible for the capture of more than 40 camps of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Central Mindanao after rein-

forcing the beleaguered 6th Infantry Division. This earned him the sobriquet Gen. Pacman.

For his brilliance in combat strategy, Cimatu was named as the 30th chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines after his stint in Mindanao.

On the other hand, Garcia, Cimatu’s classmate in PMA Class of 1970, was assigned in Mindanao for most of his military career, particularly at the height of the armed conflict where he demonstrated his fighting ability. Garcia retired as major general and AFP vice chief of staff for operations.

Velasco, the first commander of the famed Special Action Force of the Philippine Constabulary, now the Philippine National Police, saw action in Mindanao where he led his unit not only in fighting rebel forces during the long-drawn Mindanao War, but also wanted criminals in the region.

For his bravery in combat, Velasco was promoted to deputy PNP director general with a three-star rank.

Bataoil, a retired two-star general of PNP, who also saw action during the Mindanao War, is now a congressman

representing the second district of the province of Pangasinan.

The four retired generals have been recalled to “active duty,” but this time, not as combatants but serving in various capacities when they were appointed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte to high government posts.

Upon assuming his new position as MWSS administrator, Velasco initiated the “Annual Million Tree Challenge” by encouraging both government and private sectors to plant one million trees a year for five years from 2017 to 2022 to mitigate the effects of environment degradation as a consequence of climate change.

Cimatu immediately supported and endorsed the noble project with the full participation of the DENR, MWSS, and its two major concessionaires, Maynilad and Manila Water.

During the AMTC recognition day, Velasco said the reforestation project began last year in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for sustainable watershed protection, which the latter reiterated during his State of the Nation Address before Congress last Monday. PNA

A TOTAL of nine people from different parts of the country died after a series of tropical cyclones namely “Henry,” “Inday,” and “Josie” and the southwest monsoon (habagat) hit the country in the past few days. according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

“As of yesterday, siyam ‘yung validated although may ongoing validation pa,” NDRRMC executive director and Office of Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad said in a radio interview.

The NDRRMC said in its July 28 report that the casualties were from Rizal, Antique, Mt. Province, Malabon City, Pangasinan, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Caloocan City.

The agency identified the victims as Ailyn Sison, 19; Luisa Pelew, 54; Angelito Jipulan, 43; Renier Mendoza, 32; Jan Darwin Relucio, 11; Jerwin Geul, 13; Andrew Agapito, 3; Rosalie Agapito; 6; Winlito Tercio, 15; Frauline Magwa, 29; and Brix Boticario, 17.

The report said the causes of death were mostly due to drowning brought about by heavy rainfall.

Jalad also said that the number of fatalities may still increase following a validation by the Department of Health and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

“Kasi kailangan bago natin ilagay sa report na ang dulot ng pagkamatay ay related sa Habagat kailangan natin ng official validation ng DOH at DILG...

Kailangan masiguro kung ano ang cause ng pagkamatay,” he said.

He added that several areas in Region III remain flooded.

“Sa Bulacan merong 30 barangay, sa Nueva Ecija merong 15 barangay at Pampanga merong 74 barangay,” Jalad said.

A4

SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018

Reira U Mallari, Editor sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Sports SUN LIFE BIKE OUT USHERS IRONMAN 70.3 PH JACQ Buncio of the Suzuki-Wheeltek Racing Team, powered by Total Phils., chopped off 5 seconds from her last year’s personal lap record to become the fastest and first lady rider to break the 2-minute laptime barrier at Speedway with her clocking of 1:59.8

BUNCIO: FASTEST LADY ON 2 WHEELS STRIKES AGAIN J

ACQ Buncio of the Suzuki-Wheeltek Racing Team, powered by Total Phils., showed no signs of easing off by ruling three races in Round 3 of Pirelli Cup Superbike Championship at Clark International Speedway recently.

Despite having only two days to find her pacing and the right setup for her bike, Buncio chopped off 5 seconds from her last year’s personal lap record to become the fastest and first lady rider to break the 2-minute laptime barrier at Speedway with her clocking of 1:59.8.

Aboard her Suzuki GSX-R1000R bike, Buncio started from the front row of the grid and had a close fight with a fellow rider in the early laps of the race, but didn’t wilt under pressure and bounced back to the top spot of the podium with a big margin over her rivals and the championship in the Pirelli Cup Heavyweight Division A. Meanwhile, in the Philippine Su-

perbike Rookie class, she finished first place in both races and ranked fourth place overall in the Superbike Open Class, alongside more experienced, male riders.

“Every time I do an overtaking at the Acacia turn right after Maico’s Bend (formerly dog leg bend) after the hairpin section, I feel confident because I know, kuya Maico is guiding me,” said the 17-year-old Jacq, referring to the inspiration she gets from her late brother, superbikes’ legend Maico.

Dashi Watanabe and his Watanabe Racing Development Team, who are responsible for Jacq’s emergence as a force in the superbikes’ scene, were elated no end seeing

another dominant show from “the fastest lady on two wheels.”

“We worked with many things in the third round here in Clark International Speedway because this is Jacq’s first time to race a 1000cc bike. But I am confident in Jacq. She improved a lot after the last 2 rounds in BRC and now we just concentrated on some riding style adjustments and bike set up. After that, she surpassed all expectations once again by another victory. Another step closer to the championship crown. Good luck and Godspeed Lady Jacq,” said Watanabe.

Buncio, who is backed by Suzuki, Wheeltek, Total Excellium Fuel and Total Hi-Perf Motorcycle Oil, YRS Modifications, SSS Chain, KYT helmet, YSS suspension, Amaron Batteries, SPRS Leather suit, SEC Motosupply, G4 Buko Pandan and Galfer Brake system, tries to boost her bid for the overall championship in Round 4 of the series on Aug. 4 and 5 at Clark

International Speedway.

Jacq’s older sister Des, who was the 2017 2nd overall champion in the Lightweight A category and now racing in the Heavyweight B category, which was Jacq’s category last year, is using a 600cc sports bike against her male foes’ bikes that are 1000cc and above.

Now running second overall points’ leader in the concluded first and second rounds of the 2018 series in her category, Des could have closed the gap even further, but suffered two crashes during the race weekend.

“Finished fourth overall. Sasama na sana ang loob ko pero imbes na tanungin ako ng mga tao bakit ako nagkamali, inuna nilang tanungin kung safe ako,” said Des. “Sobrang suwerte ko na napapaligiran ako n g mga supportive na tao.

Bawi nalang po tayo sa susunod.”

BLU GIRLS VIE FOR OLYMPIC BERTH IN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

By Reuel Vidal

have shown it last year by consistently beating the top 10 teams in the world,” THE Philippine national softball team said Amateur Softball Association of vies for an Olympic berth in the Women’s the Philippines president Jean Henri Softball World Championship starting Lhuillier in a published report.

Aug. 2 in Chiba, Japan.

The girls have prepared hard and Catcher Cheska Altomonte said the hope to reap the rewards of all their players are in high spirits and like their hard work of the past year. chances against the best in the world.

“The team is very excited to be “Our team has beaten a lot of teams playing together again as a whole since in the top 10 in the world before and I those based in America have come to think that if we are all playing our best, train in the Philippines before flying out we can repeat that. We prepared for to Japan,” said Altomonte. these tournaments and we’ve grown The tournament champion gains as a team with all the international the Olympic berth. But if host Japan— tournaments we’ve played together,” already seeded to the 2020 Olympics as said Altomonte. host—wins the tournament, the second An Olympic berth is at stake in the placer will gain the Olympic spot. competition which is one of the four in“Only one slot (champion of the ternational qualifiers sanctioned by the tournament) will be open for Tokyo World Baseball Softball Confederation.

2020 so it’s going to be tough for us.

“The Blu Girls are the strongest na- We will be having another qualifying tional team ever assembled and they tournament next year where I be-

lieve our chances will be stronger,” said Altomonte.

The next Olympic qualifier is the Asia/Oceania Qualifying Event in 2019. The top six teams from the Asian Softball Championship and the top two squads from the Oceania Softball Championship will vie for a seat in the Tokyo Olympics.

Other members of the team include: Lorna Adorable, Mary Ann Antolihao, Dianne Arago, Layca Basa, Arlyn Bautista, Garie Blando, Shaira Damasing, Sky Eleazar, Reese Guevarra, Ezra Jalandoni, Sierra Lange, Mia Macapagal, Nicole Padasas, Celestine Palma, Racel Palumbres, Janet Rusha, Cristy Joy Roa, Chelsea Suitos, Angelie Ursabia, and Arianne Vallestero. Coach is Randy Dizer.

After the world championships the team goes after a medal in the Asian Games set August 18 to September 2 in Indonesia.

Veteran catcher Cheska Altomonte takes her turn at bat during a practice game at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

GREENIES OFF TO ANOTHER GOOD START

By Peter Atencio

LSGH cager Mark Sangco (9) scrambles for a loose ball with Red Cubs Jade Talampas (10) and Winderlich Coyoca (18).

THIS time team effort won the day for the defending champion La Salle Greenhills Greenies, who came up with a good start and sustained it till the end.

Connecting with their threepoint shots in the first two quarters, the Greenies took control right away and demolished the multi-titled San Beda Red Cubs, 73-62, last Tuesday at the Arena in San Juan.

“Right now, we’re hungrier for the win. Ayaw namin, mag-slide down to back-to-back losses,” said Greenies coach Marvin Bienvenida.

The Greenies, who are seeking back-to-back crowns this season, are slowly inching their way to the top of the standings.

They now have a 2-1 win-loss record after recovering from their 81-95 setback to the Mapua Red Robins last July 20.

Overall, the University of Perpetual Help Junior Altas and the Arellano Braves are now in the lead at 2-0, followed by the Greenies in third, the Lyceum Junior Pirates and the San Sebastian Staglets (2-2) in fourth.

One of the team’s sophomores, Sydney Mosqueda took charge for the team in their effort to bring down their

rivals for the crown last season.

The 19-year-old Mosqueda, who transferred from Nazareth SchoolNational University last year, led with 15 points, with veterans Joel Cagulangan and Joshua David making 14 and 12 points.

Mosqueda, who decided to transfer after spending four years in team B of the NU Bullpups, were among the four cagers who found their marks from the three-point range in the first period.

His teammates Joshua David and Joel Cagulangan started their pullaway, with back-to-back treys in the last 5:52 for an 11-6 edge.

HUNDREDS of cyclists take part in a fun ride in the Sun Bike Out today (Sunday), kicking off the busy Regent Aguila Ironman 70.3 Philippines Asia Pacific Championship week at the Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa in Lapu Lapu City.

The 75km Sun Life event firing off a 6 am at Mactan Newtown is staged to further drum up interest for the blue-ribbon event firing off next Sunday (Aug. 5) which drew a record international cast in the centerpiece pro division and thousands more in other categories that further underscored the growing popularity of the top endurance race in the country.

Thirty-eight of the world’s top and rising triathletes, including 21 in the premier male pro side, led by four-peat seeking Tim Reed of Australia, banner the record cast of 2,700 triathletes from over 51 countries vying in the 1.9km swim-90km bike-21.2km run event presented

by Aguila Energy Drink and Regent Food Corp. and organized and produced by Sunrise Events Inc. It also boasts of the one biggest and most complete triathlon expos to date with all finishers to receive podium trophies and medals designed and hand made by world class Cebuano designer Kenneth Cobonpue.

The TYR Swim Out, on the other hand, will be held Thursday (Aug. 2) at the Shangri-La Mactan beach where the Ironman 70.3 Phl Expo Open will be held at The Marquee.

Also on tap in the day are the triathletes’ check-in and the IronKids and Herbalife Iron Girl listup.

The Alaska Run Out, meanwhile, is set at 6 am Friday (Aug. 3) at Shangri-La Mactan Lobby to Mactan Shrine with the meet-the-pros press conference to be held in the afternoon, including a Q&A with triathlon Canada hall-of-famer and Lifesport coach Lance Watson. The Herbalife Iron Girl is set at 5 p.m.

CHINESE ACES GRACE VIVO HOOP FINALS THREE star players from China gear up for a three-point shootout with Team Philippines in a featured event serving as one of the highlights of the VIVO HoopBattle 3x3 Championship Philippines Finals unfolding today (Sunday) at Market! Market! in Taguig City.

Jason Song and Camel Luo (Luo Yongxuan), mainstays of China’s KungFu team in the ASEAN Basketball League, and Young Sean (Wang Cong), a stalwart of Peking University and member of the 2014 FIBA 3x3 World Tour Beijing Masters, are raring to showcase their shooting prowess against the local aces in a showdown spicing up the VIVO HoopBattle finale starting at 1:20 pm.

Eight teams, which survived the grueling four-leg elims of the event’s Phl leg presented by AyalaMalls, Synergies, Inc. and Vivo, will dispute the top two spots in the VIVO HoopBattle 3x3 Championship Grand Finals set in October in Suzhou, China.

The top two will also receive P200,000 and P100,000, respectively, while the top three teams in the China grand finals will get P3 million, P900,000 and P600,000, respectively.

The Phl leg is presented by AyalaMalls Synergies, Inc. and VIVO, the leading global smartphone brand, and backed by Capdase.

Team Ballers and Metro Star Realty, which ruled the first Phl leg at Glorietta; TriNoma stop winners Team F4 and BS Susim Shipping; Team Just Coco and Team Core, which topped the South Park leg; and Fairview Terraces stage winners Arellano U and Enderun will be divided into two groups. After the single round phase, the top two will clash in a cross-over semis with the winners clinching the China berths and squaring off for the crown.

Also on tap are fun events for the fans with fabulous prizes at stake. For updates, follow the official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/VHBCP/.

B1

SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018

Opinion

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

FROM WHERE I STAND ERIC JURADO

FLUIDITY

L

AST week’s power shift at the House of Representatives initially came as a shock to many, given the elements of stealth and drama that came with it.

Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was installed as the new Speaker, even as it was Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez who welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte to the Batasan.

Eventually, while it was Alvarez who sat behind the President during the State of the Nation Address, the leadership did pass on to Mrs. Arroyo who clearly had command of the numbers among her colleagues.

Her assumption of the speakership coincides with Mr. Duterte’s articulation of his legislative priorities.

Now we see various personalities in the Duterte administration who used to be vociferous critics of Mrs. Arroyo but who will now find themselves working with her. We wonder: What might be going

THE BEST PRESIDENT DO more.

That’s what people demand of their presidents and political leaders these days. A real president, regardless of his or her political persuasion, knows how to use “the office.” A real president makes things happen. Or so goes the conventional wisdom.

But, actually, there is another model.

A president can succeed through inaction, by doing as little as possible.

One such president was America’s Calvin Coolidge. Calvin who? Yes, Coolidge. The best president nobody knows. From the time he took office in 1923 to the time he left in 1929, Coolidge served a philosophy that was simple and powerful: Don’t do.

Coolidge was “the great refrainer.”

The leadership style matched his personal style. Coolidge did not waste words. Hence his nickname, Silent Cal. He did not grandstand. For these quiet ways, the thirtieth president of the United States absorbed much abuse. A Washington socialite, Alice Longworth, said that Coolidge looked like he had been “weaned on a pickle”—a sour, disagreeable, or unpleasant look on one’s face.

Coolidge cut a sharp contrast to Alice’s father, Theodore Roosevelt, who had served a decade and a half earlier. And what a contrast Coolidge provided with another Roosevelt, Franklin, who came just a few years later.

The great refrainer is worth getting to know because he got the kind of results men and women of action long for today. Especially economic results. He reduced government debt by one-third, cut the tax rate by half, and reduced unemployment by half.

He kept unemployment low, often below five percent. Wages increased and strikes were few. Americans (and Filipinos) got electricity, Ford Model Ts, and then Ford Model As, and radios.

And most remarkable of all, a shrinking federal budget. In 1926, for instance, the federal budget included $14.5 million (about $200 million today) for the upkeep of the US army, navy, and other services in the Philippines. If you have to remember just one fact about Coolidge’s presidency, let it be this: Coolidge achieved a budget surplus every year of his presidency and left the federal budget lower than he had found it.

How did Coolidge do it? First he resisted taking unnecessary action himself. Second, he imposed the same discipline on Congress. That wasn’t easy. In the early 1920s, the progressive movement was on the march. Their impulse, then and now, was always to do something. Progressive plans included more aid for agriculture, encouraging unions, increasing taxes, and nationalizing important industries, such as railroads and utilities.

Coolidge abhorred perpetual activity by government. “Don’t hurry to legislate,” he said. He blocked the progressives, and thereby blocked their expansion of government. He vetoed farm subsidies twice, even though he personally came from an area of poor farmers—rural Vermont.

Coolidge was sympathetic to farmers, but helping them wasn’t the government’s function.

Coolidge also vetoed aggressive versions of the great entitlement

on in their minds, and do they think they would encounter difficulty given that in the past they expressed such distaste for the Speaker?

This might be true if their reasons for criticizing Mrs. Arroyo were borne out of genuine conviction. If these were out of mere convenience, then we figure they would not have any problem doing business as usual.

It’s by no means limited to the new leadership at the House. Time and again we have seen hordes of politicians changing alliances when it is expeditious for their interests to do so.

It has become so common that we should not be surprised anymore. Expecting our leaders to stay true to declared affiliations may just be too much. For now we have to get used to these tendencies, accept this reality, and keep in mind who remains true to the interests of their constituents despite constantly shifting sands.

Turn to B4

TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT WATER FUTURE

By Ramoncito S. Fernandez MAYNILAD is the largest water service provider in the Philippines in terms of customer base.

We serve over 9 million people within 17 cities and municipalities in Metro Manila.

I have been listening to the talks since yesterday, and the discussions highlighted the need for innovative approaches to addressing

emerging challenges in the industry. These are the very same challenges that Maynilad faces, and I believe that these are the imperatives for the water sector in the future: First, water security: Where to get a sustainable alternative water source to meet growing demand?

Second, urbanization: Population growth and the infrastructure boom are taking away

space for new facilities.

Third, efficiency: How to increase or sustain efficiency levels in the face of unpredictability?

I appreciate the focus that the conference has given to these pressing issues. I think what is left for me to do now is to chime in with the things that we are doing in Maynilad.

Last year, we launched a corporate transformation strategy called “Maynilad next

generation.” There are many facets to the challenge of building a sustainable and resilient future. “Maynilad next generation” connects and aligns these by organizing them into a three-point strategy of operational efficiency, business growth and organizational capability.

To enhance our operational efficiency, Maynilad is investing in technology. We’ve come a long way from managing pre-war

pipes to remotely monitoring facilities from a central control room. Most of our assets— from plants to pipes—have been geotagged and can be monitored from a webmap. These tools have enabled our field personnel to work more efficiently, and respond to supply issues more promptly.

Even as we invest in technology, we also Turn to B4

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B2

SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

CBS BOSS MOONVES HIT WITH SEXUAL MISCONDUCT RAPS NEW YORK—A bombshell article published in The New Yorker on Friday accused CBS chairman and chief executive, Leslie Moonves, of sexual misconduct stretching back decades and painted a broader picture of similar behavior within the most watched US television network.

The article makes Moonves, a distinguished executive who transformed CBS into a ratings winner, one of the most powerful American men implicated in the #MeToo era that ignited last year after the career implosion of Harvey Weinstein.

CBS announced that it had launched an investigation into the “recently reported” alleged misconduct. Reports about the story sent CBS shares tumbling more than six percent, hours before it was even published.

Six women who had professional dealings with Moonves told the magazine that he sexually harassed them between the 1980s and late 2000s.

Moonves, 68, joined CBS in 1995 from Warner Bros. Television, where his team developed hit shows such as “Friends” and “ER.” Four described forcible touching or kissing during business meetings, and two said Moonves physically intimidated them or threatened to derail their careers, The New Yorker’s Ronan Farrow reported. AFP

POWERFUL STORM BARRELS TOWARD DISASTER-HIT JAPAN TOKYO—A powerful typhoon hurtled towards Japan on Saturday, prompting local authorities to issue early evacuation orders, with western areas recently devastated by floods and landslides in the storm’s crosshairs.

Typhoon Jongdari, packing winds of up to 180 kilometres (110 miles) an hour, is forecast to make landfall on the country’s main island on Saturday night or early Sunday, according to Japan’s Meteorological Agency.

TV footage showed high waves smashing onto rocks and seawalls on the coastline in Shimoda, southwest of Tokyo, and trees buffeted by strong winds and heavy rain.

The storm, currently some 200 kilometres south of Tokyo, is expected to barrel towards the western Chugoku region Sunday, where record rainfall earlier this month unleashed flooding and landslides, killing around 220 people and leaving more than 4,000 survivors still living in temporary shelters.

The weather agency warned of heavy rain, landslides, strong winds and high waves, and urged people to consider early evacuation.

“We want people especially in the downpour-hit regions to pay close attention to evacuation advisories,” meteorological agency official Minako Sakurai told reporters.

The western city of Shobara in Hiroshima prefecture issued an evacuation order to some 36,400 residents as a precautionary measure, officials said. AFP

GREEK WILDFIRES DEATH TOLL CLIMBS TO 88, MANY KIDS ATHENS—A woman has died in hospital taking the death toll from Greece’s worst wildfires to 88, many of them children, officials said Saturday.

The unnamed woman in her 40’s had been in hospital since fire ravaged the seaside village of Mati, east of the capital Athens, on Monday.

The Health Ministry said a dozen other people remained in hospital with serious injuries.

Forensics experts have faced a difficult task trying to identify the bodies of those who perished, many completely charred.

A private detective employed by one family which lost three children and their grandparents told reporters Friday night that nine year-old twins Sophia and Vassiliki had been identified.

They were found wrapped in the embrace of their grandparents among 26 bodies outside a villa near the sea at Mati.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said Friday he assumed “political responsibility” for the tragedy as a bitter debate raged over who was to blame.

The opposition earlier accused the government of refusing to take responsibility after it said arson was suspected.

AFP

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor / Jimbo Gulle, Issue Editor

WAR DEAD RETURNED AS TRUMP LAUDS KIM

W

ASHINGTON —Amid skepticism over his rapprochement with Kim Jong Un, United States President Donald Trump praised the North Korean leader on Friday for returning remains believed to be those of more than 50 US servicemen.

Trump pointed to the handover of 55 boxes said to hold the remains of US troops killed during the Korean War as evidence that his overtures to the North Korean strongman were bearing fruit.

“I want to thank Chairman Kim for keeping his word,” Trump said during an appearance at the White House after tweeting that it was a “great moment for so many families.”

Trump has hailed his June summit with Kim in Singapore as effectively ending the North Korean nuclear threat.

But it contained only a vague commitment on Pyongyang’s part to work towards the “denuclearization of the Korean peninsula”—a long way from the complete, verifiable and irreversible disarmament

demanded by Washington.

With Trump facing criticism that concrete post-summit progress was scant, he welcomed the repatriation of the remains—which came on the 65th anniversary of the end of the war—as evidence that the talks were a success.

“I want to thank Chairman Kim in front of the media for fulfilling a promise that he made to me,” he said.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said the administration was “encouraged by North Korea’s actions and the momentum for positive change.”

More than 35,000 Americans were killed during the 1950-53 war and 7,700 are still listed as missing in action—most of them in North Korea.

A US military C-17 cargo plane car-

rying the purported remains of the more than 50 US servicemen landed at a US air base in South Korea on Thursday.

A formal repatriation ceremony is to be held in Hawaii on August 1, attended by Vice President Mike Pence. The remains will then be analyzed there.

North Korea has previously been accused—most notably by Japan— of faking the remains of foreign citizens and using them as a bargaining chip.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Friday described the repatriation as setting a “positive tone for other things, more important things in terms of international diplomacy.

“This humanitarian act, obviously, is a step in the right direction,” Mattis said.

He added that the remains of French and Australian soldiers who fought alongside the Americans could be found in the boxes handed over by Pyongyang.

“You noticed that there was a UN blue flag on each of the boxes,” Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon.

“We don’t know who’s in those boxes.”

Michael Fuchs, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, said “the return of remains is important, and can be viewed as a potential confidence building measure.”

But Fuchs, a former US deputy assistant secretary for East Asia, added on Twitter that North Korea may be “picking off low hanging fruit to make it seem like they are making concessions in the overall negotiations.”

Fuchs noted reports that Pyongyang has started dismantling a facility seen as a testing ground for intercontinental ballistic missiles—a move welcomed earlier this week by Trump.

“The destruction of the nuke test site was not observed by inspectors, so the details can’t be verified— same goes for the dismantling of the engine test site,” Fuchs said. “And these steps are reversible. And none touch on the core issue - NK nukes.”

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was grilled about North Korea’s sincerity by members of the US Senate during testimony this week. AFP

HONORED DEAD.

A United Nations honor guard carries a box containing remains believed to be from US servicemen killed during the 1950-53 Korean War, after arriving from North Korea at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek on Friday.

A US military aircraft carrying the remains of US Korean War dead collected in North Korea arrived in the South on Friday, the 65th anniversary of the armistice that ended the fighting. AFP

THICK MUD HAMPERS LAOS DAM RESCUE ATTAPEU, Laos—Rescuers battled thick mud and flood waters across a swathe of remote southern Laos to find survivors of a dam burst that submerged entire villages, as an official suggested more than 1,100 people may still be unaccounted for.

The exact number of dead and missing from Monday’s dam collapse remains a mystery because of the complexity of the rescue operation in an inaccessible area and the se-

cretive reflexes of Laos’s Communist authorities in the face of an unprecedented crisis.

“The search is very complicated, many areas cannot be accessed by cars or boats. Also, we have limited modern equipment to bring to the field,” deputy secretary of Attapeu province committee Meenaporn Chaichompoo told reporters Friday.

She also said hundreds still have not been located, five days after the dam burst.

“We can’t find 1,126 people,” she said, adding that 131 have been confirmed missing by relatives.

Initially officials said 27 people were confirmed dead, but Meenaporn reduced that to six, without explanation.

The remoteness of the disaster zone and slow trickle of often contradictory information has sparked fears the death toll could rise sharply.

A stretch of land dozens of kilometres long and wide was submerged

when the Xe-Namnoy dam collapsed after heavy rains.

Slowly retreating floodwaters have cut off access to villages and covered much of the area with thick, sticky mud.

“This is one of the worst (disasters) I’ve ever seen. Especially because we’re not a very strong country in terms of rescue operations,” a volunteer rescue worker told AFP, requesting anonymity as he was not authorized to speak to media. AFP

PLANE CRASH IN SWISS ALPS KILLS FOUR

HEAR ME ROAR. A white lion is seen at Huachipa Zoo in Lima province, Peru, on Thursday.

Two white lions—a four- and a five-month-old—born at the Altiplano Zoo in Tlaxcala, Mexico, were brought to Huachipa Zoo as part of an exchange program. AFP

GENEVA, Switzerland—Four people died when their light aircraft crashed into the summit of a glacier in the Swiss Alps, police said Saturday, in the latest fatal accident to hit the popular tourist region.

The plane went down 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level at 4:45 pm (1445 GMT) on Friday in an area known as the Dunand Pass, police in southern Valais canton said in a statement.

They identified the plane as a four-seater made by the French firm Robin and which had taken off from Sion airport for “a pleasure flight”.

After receiving an alert, authorities dispatched rescue teams to the summit but found the pilot and three passengers dead at the scene.

“The circumstances of the accident have not yet been determined,” police added. The victims have not yet been formally identified.

The accident comes after an unusually deadly winter season in the Swiss Alps that saw multiple hikers killed in a series of avalanches. AFP

LGUs

BALANGA LEADERS DISTRIBUTE RELIEF GOODS FOR FLOODS

MALAPITAN’S 5TH ‘SOCA’ STRESSES BIG INFRA GAINS

By Butch Gunio

By Jun David CALOOCAN Mayor Oscar Malapitan on Thursday addressed the public, represented by leaders of various sectors, on his fifth State of the City Address.

Speaking before over 500 guests at the Bulwagang Katipunan Hall at the New Caloocan City Hall, the mayor presented the accomplishments of his administration in the past five years.

They include the provision of different services to the people and the rise of major infrastructure projects like the Caloocan Sports Complex, Caloocan Commercial Complex, Drug Rehabilitation Center, and the new Caloocan City Hall.

Malapitan also laid the incoming projects for Caloocan which, among many, consist of the People’s Park, Caloocan Convention Center, and a new mall to be constructed in place of the old City Hall. He revealed that more malls are set to be built around Caloocan.

The mayor also vowed to continue reaching out to the people of Caloocan in giving social assistance particularly those that are urgently needed by his constituents.

Meanwhile, Malapitan encouraged the private sector to keep his legacy in building a city with citizens who are decent, diligent, and dignified.

SM MARILAO GIVES 1,500 RELIEF GOODS TO TYPHOON VICTIMS TORRENTIAL monsoon rains worsened by the recent typhoons “Henry,” “Inday” and “Josie” flooded large swathes and turned some areas in Bulacan into inland seas.

Mall giant SM recently sent its volunteers to flooded areas in Marilao to provide immediate relief to thousands of families affected by the recent calamities.

Through SM Foundation Inc.’s Operation Tulong Express program, around 1,500 families were given relief packs or “kalinga packs.”

These packs contain a kilo of rice, canned sardines, and instant noodles as well as bottled waters all packed in an eco-bag.

OPTE is SM Foundation’s emergency response to victims of natural calamities and disasters.

Its implementation include close coordination with Savemore and Hypermarket, Mall administration employees and volunteers that include the mall’s Customer Relations Service team and the local government unit. Jun David

BUSINESS AS USUAL. A woman takes advantage of the heat of the sun on Thursday to dry assorted fish like ‘tamban’ and ‘galunggong’ along a busy street in Gasangan, Barangay 649, in Baseco, Tondo, Manila. Lino Santos

PASIG TOPS WWF’S CITY CHALLENGE ‘18

L

EADING experts within the field of urban sustainability around the globe has proclaimed Pasig City as the Philippine National Capital of the 20172018 edition of World Wide Fund for Nature’s One Planet City Challenge.

The OPCC is a biennial global challenge that recognizes cities for developing infrastructure, housing, transport, and mobility solutions to power the global transition to a lowcarbon, climate-resilient future.

This edition saw 133 countries representing 23 countries accepting the Challenge.

An awarding ceremony for the OPCC national winner, finalists, and qualifiers of the Philippines will cap off a two-day workshop to be held at Marco Polo Ortigas from Aug. 9 to 10.

Pasig’s concrete and comprehensive actions to reduce its carbon emissions, particularly its plan to reduce traffic emissions and congestions, as well as its targeted actions around renewable energy and energy efficiency,

truly reflected the “sustainable transport and mobility” theme of this run of the OPCC. This made the city eligible for the Global OPCC Prize, which will be awarded in September.

The jury also particularly appreciated the city’s strong community engagement and its adaptation actions, such as the cleaning of the Pasig River and its firm alignment of actions to emissions reduction and execution of these actions.

Seven other Philippine cities— Batangas, Catbalogan, Makati, Parañaque, San Carlos, Tagum, and Zamboanga—have successfully qualified to join the 2017-2018 OPCC based on the criteria announced early in 2017.

The cities of Makati, Pasig, and San

POLICE JOB FAIR.

Federation of FilipinoChinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. External Affairs Committee Chairman Nelson Guevarra (left) represents president Domingo Yap during the 23rd PNP Police Community Relations Month at Camp Crame in Quezon City, with Special Assistant to the President Secretary Christopher Lawrence Go (right) as guest of honor and PNP Chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde (third from left).

The program highlights the Stakeholders Bazaar, Product Exhibit, Livelihood Bazaar and Job Fair, and the FFCCCII is one of the supporters and donors of the event.

‘HOLCIM HELPS’ AIMS TO AID 400K PEOPLE BY 2020

BUILDING solutions provider Holcim Philippines Inc. aims to help close to 400,000 people in its communities by 2020 through programs for shelter, infrastructure, education, livelihood, health and safety as part of its social responsibility and sustainability commitments to have a more positive impact on development.

Holcim Philippines unveiled these plans Friday during the launch of “Holcim Helps,” a campaign which standardizes the communication programs of its various sites for their communities particularly on social and environmental initiatives.

The campaign also follows the LafargeHolcim Group’s sustain-

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SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

able development strategy which includes a set of actionable goals to contribute to the global efforts in tackling the pressing issues stated in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Holcim Philippines president and CEO John Stull said that “Holcim Helps” aims to make its communities and the public better understand and appreciate that Holcim Philippines’ programs are about working with our partners for a future for keeps.

“Holcim Helps” also underscores our goal of making our programs a collaboration with our communities instead of charitable donations as the primary form of assistance,” Stull said.

“Instead, our goal is to partner with them to better understand their needs and equip them with the means to improve their lives through capability-building initiatives for a more sustainable and lasting positive impact,” he added.

Since 2015, Holcim Philippines corporate citizenship programs have benefited close to 300,000 people in its communities and beyond.

Education programs have received the largest share of funds for social programs at 32 percent, followed by livelihood and employment, as well as shelter and infrastructure that have each cornered a quarter of the budget, respectively.

Carlos went on to become national finalists and participated in the “We Love Cities” global campaign from May 7 until the end of June 2018.

The City of Jakarta bagged the top plum in the campaign, which is a social media contest that is aimed at inspiring and engaging the respective citizens of the national finalists across the globe for support, votes, and ideas for improvement while Pasig came in second.

Launched in 2011 as the Earth Hour City Challenge, the OPCC highlights the crucial role that cities play in the transition toward a low-carbon and sustainable future.

Since then, over 400 countries from five continents have heeded the call to sustainably address fast and large transformations in population, consumption patterns, resource use, and waste management.

The Philippines joined the Challenge in its 2015-2016 run.

Visit www.panda.org/opcc and http://www.welovecities.org/ for further details.

BALANGA CITY, Bataan—City officials have been spearheading the distribution of relief goods for almost a week now to families in barangays here affected by Typhoon “Josie.”

Raquel Garcia, wife of City Mayor Francis Garcia, and Vice Mayor Vianca Venzon-Gozon led the distribution of relief goods in villages here including Barangay Talisay on Friday.

They were joined by Councilors Benjie Merino, SK federated president Jim Espinosa, Joy Panganiban and Ric Magpantay.

The City Social Welfare Development Office and General Services Office, Balanga police, and barangay officials also joined in the distribution.

Most of the relief goods were from the city government but companies also donated goods. These were from the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Charoen Pokphand Foods Philippines, MVP Group of Companies, and Asiawide Land.

Aside from Talisay, relief goods were distributed in Barangays Bagumbayan, Cupang North, Munting Batangas, Ibayo, Tenejero, Cataning, Poblacion, Dona Francisca, and San Jose.

The City Agriculture Office also distributed 80 sacks of corn seeds and fertilizers as assistance to affected farmers from Barangays Cabog-Cabog, Tanato, Dangcol, Ibayo and Cataning.

The city had been declared under state of calamity due to floods caused by the typhoon.

ANTIPOLO STAGES 1ST HEALTH YOUTH SUMMIT FOR ‘GEN Z’ THE city of Antipolo recently held the “Kabataan, Kabalikat sa Kalusugan Youth Summit” that focused on several problems concerning youths aged 12 to 22, also called Generation Z, at the Antipolo Sports Educational Hub. This was the first ever locally held youth summit led by the City Health Office that gave more attention to the health and awareness of the Generation Z. Over 500 teenagers from 16 barangays attended the lecture about the bad effects of smoking cigarettes, using illegal drugs, teenage pregnancy, HIV/AIDS and the importance of mental health, especially with depression.

City Mayor Jun Ynares emphasized to the teenagers that their generation will face bigger circumstances compared to past generations. He said the Internet and social media increased the possibility of them being victims of abuse and bad influence.

The local government wants them to have a better understanding of life, to think critically, and to be more sensitive in making life decisions.

City health officer Dr. Concepcion Lat, DoH-Calabarzon’s adolescent coordinator Dr. Edna Defante, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president Peter Papel Jr. also gave inspirational messages at the summit.

Participants from the lectures fell into eight groups. The local government’s staff and teenagers from Barangay Bagong Nayon also performed, and the audience members who participated from the games received prices.

Rhosedel Grace Gabac

At the press launch of the ‘Holcim Helps’ program in Makati are (from left) John Stull, Holcim Philippines president and CEO; Cara Ramirez, head of Communications; Steph Fogoso, environment manager; and Ram Maganti, senior vice president for Marketing and Innovations.

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Opinion

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

BEHOLD THE AMAZONIAN ECO-WARRIOR DRAG QUEEN

By Paula Ramon SAO PAULO— Bare chested, wearing an ankle-length dress, painted yellow, green and red, with flowers or leaves in his hair, it takes Brazil’s Emerson Munduruku two hours to transform into Uyra Sodoma, his drag queen alter ego.

Whether carrying seeds, branches and other natural materials, Munduruku’s creation Uyra, often submerged up to the waist in water, is a colorful extension of the earth and nature.

His mission: To travel around Amazon villages, teaching conservation through performance art.

Of indigenous descent, biologist Munduruku was born in the Amazon region and the environment is a subject about which he feels passionate.

“In a time of change, I had wanted to work in environmental protection,” the 27-year-old told AFP. “I was doing it from a scientific perspective but I realized it was also

THE... From B1 proposal of his day, an entitlement that would have expanded the budget by billions—pension for veterans. And, he blocked the rise of militant labor unions wherever and whenever he could, a habit he had begun while still governor of Massachusetts.

Coolidge made especially good use of the pocket veto, which is the ability of the president to veto a bill by simply not returning it to congress. “It is much more important to kill bad bills,” he said, “than to pass good ones.” In total, Coolidge vetoed 50 times.

The legislation Coolidge did endorse was designed to meet the

important from a social perspective. Until then, Uyra had no face or name.”

Munduruku, or rather Uyra, takes part in educational projects, teaching children about Amazon communities and how to both connect with and protect nature.

After suffering a homophobic as-

same minimalist end: restrain the government. Together with his Treasury Secretary, Andrew Mellon, Coolidge lowered the top tax rate from 58 percent to 25 percent, and eliminated “nuisance” taxes (which are like today’s VAT and sin taxes). Their goal was to shrink the public sector, so that the private sector could expand. And the policy worked. The economy more than doubled and tax revenue increased. By 1927, 98 percent of the population paid no income tax.

The final example of the great refrainer’s philosophy involves political sacrifice. The country liked Coolidge’s thrift. The progressives won 17 percent of the vote in 1924, but Coolidge won the presidential election with more votes than the Democrats and progressives

sault in the Amazonian state capital Manaus in 2015, Munduruku decided to give a new meaning to his life, and Uyra was born.

“I’d spent six years of my life studying frogs and lizards... and one day I was hit coming out of a bar because I was wearing lipstick and eyeliner,” he said.

“That violence rocked me to my core... I started to get closer to women, transvestites, and understand more about racism and homophobia. I became closer to the city and the people.”

Brazilian crisis Munduruku’s personal metamorphosis happened at a time of political turmoil in Brazil, as a corruption scandal involving scores of highprofile politicians and major enterprises exploded, eventually leading to the impeachment of then president Dilma Rousseff in 2016.

“Brazil was going through a crisis, artistic expressions of protest were springing up all over Manaus and I asked myself how I could bring new perspectives to my work,” he said.

“That was what brought Uyra into the world.”

But there was more than an assault behind Munduruku’s journey from amphibian and reptile studies to eco-warrior drag queen.

“Our stories can be told through the prism of pain and an immediate metamorphosis. But our stories are much more complex than that,” he said.

“Uyra has given me a new lease on life. She makes me happy. She makes me more comfortable in my skin and with other people, as well as with my desires and concerns.”

Munduruku says he doesn’t believe in different genders: “They’re the same, female, male. All I need is that people treat me with respect.”

Born in a tiny community of less than 40,000 people in the north of Brazil, he moved to Manaus with his parents and older sister when he was six. Since then, they’ve lived in the suburbs, surrounded by tributaries to the Rio Negro.

The son of a salesman and a maid, Munduruku wanted to study literature at university, but a teacher convinced him to pursue biology studies instead.

‘Enchantment or fear’ Now he spends his time traveling around small riverside villages to teach about environmental conservation through art. It’s through this that Uyra emerges in her full splendor and glory.

“Fundamental to the project is using the jungle as both an inspiration and a tool. This helps to connect people to the forest,” he said.

“Uyra is always met with either enchantment or fear... in cities, those who are enchanted approach to speak. But in the villages even those who are afraid approach. There’s no distance, it’s more spontaneous. It’s the same with children, they’re curious so they approach.”

But while Munduruku tries to pass on to the next generation a sensibility towards the importance of protecting the planet, he sees little to feel positive about when it comes to those who hold the fate of the environment in their hands.

With presidential elections due in October, Munduruku sees little political will to tackle the country’s growing problems.

“Thousands of people are looking for desperate, immediate solutions or magic to solve systemic problems,” he said.

“We live in an age of serious violence in which indigenous lands and environmental reserves are threatened by the invasion of business agreements.”

But Munduruku remains upbeat.

“Even though chaos in Brazil seems only to be increasing, I see a lot of green and hope.” AFP

combined. So everyone, including the Republican Party, thought Coolidge would surely run a second time in 1928.

But he declined. Typical of Coolidge, he thought he had done enough.

Yes, it’s possible to criticize Coolidge.

As much as he tried to avoid it, Coolidge in the end signed bills he would have preferred not to. And, the president showed a misguided penchant for protectionism, which was never a sound economic policy then and now. Some suggest that Coolidge was responsible for the stock market crash and the decade-long depression that followed after he left office. But research suggests that claim is inaccurate. In the book, The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression by Amity Shales, there is evidence that too much action

by Presidents Hoover and Roosevelt put the Great in the phrase, the Great Depression, through increased government intervention and erratic policies.

It is ironic that a man of such personal modesty presided over the era known as the Roaring Twenties—the era of The Great Gatsby and the unprecedented prosperity of the Philippines’ old sugar and landed families. But that was the paradox: Coolidge was a scrooge who begat plenty.

Perhaps the day has come for today’s politicians to follow the great refrainer’s guiding rule. Where others do, don’t.

And if you have to do, do less. You might just end up with a prosperous nation. eric.jurado@gmail.com

TOWARD... From B1 invest in our people. We have institutionalized a competency assessment program so we can tailor training interventions with our employees’ needs. We recently admitted our biggest batch of new engineering graduates under our cadetship program.

We also have a new integrated asset management team. Their job is to make sure assets perform optimally throughout their lifecycle, leading to reduced operating costs and improved enterprise-wide efficiency.

We also institutionalized energy management in Maynilad. Conscious efforts to reduce power consumption enabled us to generate energy savings and decrease our greenhouse gas emission intensity through simple process changes—despite continued service expansion.

Meanwhile, rapid urbanization presents another roadblock to the improvement of our service levels. In an ideal world, we would have huge impounding reservoirs to store water when and where it is abundant, and build conveyances leading to areas where the water resource is needed. Unfortunately, this is impossible given the lack of available land on which to build such infrastructure.

This is of particular concern to Maynilad because our concession area is densely populated, and there is simply no space to build huge water facilities. Yet servicing a growing population requires it.

Our solution was to develop distributed water sources—smaller reservoirs spread out in different locations. This strategy has enabled us to expand service coverage despite the lack of real estate. At the same time, having many reservoirs in various locations will allow us to continue providing water in case of contained disasters, such as earthquakes.

Finally, there is the challenge of water security. In recent years, climate change has been tough on our business. The Philippines lies on the typhoon path, so we expect an average of 20 typhoons in a year, concentrated between June and October.

But in recent years, we have seen major typhoons outside of the June-to-October season, as well as prolonged dry spells during summer. Unpredictable and extreme weather conditions have resulted in two major issues: First, low water supply; second, increased turbidity.

Ninety-seven percent of Metro Manila’s water supply comes from one source—the Angat Dam. So you can just imagine the supply risk that we face.

In years past, this risk has turned into actual crisis situations. We have since approached this issue with medium-term solutions, including the upgrade and retrofitting our treatment plants so that these can handle extreme turbidity levels. We are also building a new treatment plant to increase our production, additional reservoirs to boost our storage capacity, and pumping stations for better supply management.

In the end, however, these are just stopgap measures. We know that we need to do something toward increasing raw water supply.

In 2010, we began tapping Laguna Lake for this purpose. Our treatment facility here yields 150 million liters of potable water per day, and serves our customers in the southern part of our concession.

Meanwhile, the Kaliwa dam project of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System was approved by the government back in 2014. The project is targeted for completion by 2023. Once completed, it will provide 600 mld of additional raw water for Metro Manila.

While we wait for this major water source to come on stream, we are already looking at the possibility of building another treatment facility to draw water from Laguna Lake.

Likewise, we have been exploring other options—including desalination, reverse osmosis, and mobile treatment plants—to further boost our production.

We are also starting a shift in perspective from linear to circular economy. Our practice has been to get raw water, treat it, distribute it, collect the wastewater, treat it, and release it. Now, we are exploring the possibility of reusing the effluent so it goes back into the cycle.

You can’t get more sustainable than that.

We see this coming in the near future. After all, there is technology available to treat all types of water! The only question is, “at what cost?”

These technological developments excite us at Maynilad, because all these are shaping up to be viable solutions to our supply issues.

In Maynilad, we have put more resources on three things: Risk readiness: We are trying to approximate crisis situations and their triggers. And as best as we can, we are also trying to crisis-proof our operations.

Agility: We need to be able to move and make informed decisions quickly, to avert impending crises, or to contain current crisis situations.

Resiliency: Following a disaster, we need to be able to bounce, as fast as we can.

And we have tried to do all of these in the most practical and cost-efficient ways.

As players in the water industry, we need to realize that the challenges that we are facing are bigger than us, individually. Sustainable solutions to these problems may require putting our heads—if not our resources— together.

Ramoncito S. Fernandez is the president of the Maynilad Water Services Inc. He delivered this speech during the International Water Week forum in Singapore.

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Business

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

HOW A FORMER FARMER BUILT A BEAUTY EMPIRE

FOREIGN EXPERTS TO SHOWCASE HOW TO REINVENT RETAIL AT NRCE

By Nathalie Grace Adalid and Rhosedel Grace Gabac

D

INA Dela Paz Stalder remembers growing up poor and working as a farmer in Laguna province, a medical representative in Manila and a domestic helper in England.

When she returned to the Philippines in the late 1980s, she did some skin-care formulations based on what she saw in Europe that would prove successful in the country. Now at 54, Stalder who was formerly married to a Swiss national heads an empire of skin care laboratory and beauty clinics.

She is the founder and president of BCP Dermatological Corp., Stalder Laboratories and Diana Stalder Face, Body, Skincare Center which used to be known as Dermaline Inc. In 2017, she was recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by the Filipina Women’s Network.

“I started with nothing,” Dina says in an interview. “I was born as a farmer. I saw the hardship that my parents went through. When I was a student, I needed to walk on the mud for 45 minutes during the rainy season just to go to school. Sometimes, my father would put me on the back of the carabao to go to school. So I have seen poverty and lack of education. These two factors keep me going to this day,” she says.

Her parents sent her to Manila to study Medical Technology. She ended up becoming a medical representative for a dermatological company.

This gave her an idea to delve into the same business, and she eventually teamed up with a pharmacist to establish a skin care clinic. The partnership later soured and broke up.

Dina decided to work as a domestic helper in England, initially for a British-Filipina couple and later for a Jewish family who taught her about medical formulations. Armed with this knowhow, she returned to the country to put up a small pharmacy with her own formulations.

With almost zero capital, she did her skin-care formulations in a small steel pot in 1989. She was also the one who served as the medical representative for her own product under the Dermaline brand.

With the help of the network of doctors she nurtured while she was working as a medrep, Dina was able to grow Dermaline as a skin care brand. The good product quality helped expand the brand awareness. She earned her first million in 1991 at the age of 27.

Dina would later rename Dermaline as Diana Stalder Face, Body and Skincare Inc. in 1996 after one of her daughter, Diana, who now serves as the vice president of operations. The business grew to include spa and cafe.

Diana Stalder has been making its own legacy in terms of being a health and beauty hub in the Philippines. It is known for high-quality service and world-class products that come from its own laboratories and farms. These products are FDAapproved, GMP-certified (Good Manufacturing Practice), Halal-certified and compliant with the Asean Harmonization for Cosmetics Regulations Standard.

Currently, Diana Stalder offers skin services and specialized treatments handled by medical specialists like basic care, whitening, antiacne, anti-aging, peel, warts, and body. Their

NRCE 2018 overall chairman Frederick Go

Dina Dela Paz Stalder (right) and her daughter Diana Stalder

specialists, therapist and workers are welltrained and service-oriented because they are supervised and trained by Dina and her daughter Diana.

Unlike other facial centers in the Philippines, Diana Stalder offers across-the-board services such as casmara treatment—an algae mask that is also used in anti-aging procedures and that originated in Spain. It also offers caviar facial treatment that focuses on anti-aging procedures and that originated in the United Kingdom.

Other than services, the company is into direct selling of skin whitening, sunscreen, acne treatment, toning and cleansing, moisturizing preparation, skin vitamins, beauty bar, personal care and product kits that are manufactured in their own laboratories. Their laboratories, Stalder Lab and BCP Dermatological Corp., produce diverse formulations that assure customers of premium quality products.

Diana Stalder offers not only beauty products but also healthier food that became their trade mark in the business. The concept of having a healthy cafe is to help reduce skin problems and

promote healthy living.

The DS Cafe serves mouthwatering salads, appetizing sandwiches, leafy vegetables, flavorful juices and various meals that offer a lower calorie count. The courses that they offer are 100-percent organic and all the ingredients used come from the Stalder Farm.

After reaping success for almost 30 years, Dina is giving back to the community. She is helping indigent families in her home town of San Pablo, Laguna. She lets the older ones work in her plantation and she provides education about farming.

“You have to teach them how to fish,” she says.

Diana Stalder, whose main office in located in Sampaloc, Manila, has clinics/stores at Gateway Mall in Cubao, Quezon City; Megamall in Mandaluyong City and SM City Calamba in Laguna. They also have a franchised branch at SM Bacolod City in Negros Occidental.

Diana, the 24-year-old vice president of operations, says the plan is to grow the network of clinics to 10 this year. “I hope that this company will continue to flourish, as we promote education on the pharma side,” says Diana.

POSIBLE EMPOWERS YOUNG FILIPINO ENTREPRENEURS P O S I B L E, the countr y ’s leading community digital transactions provider, has officially launched an exciting new package aimed towards aspiring young Filipino entrepreneurs.

Dubbed ‘Posible Generation 2’, the revised business package and all its accompanying features were revealed at the opening of the Franchise Asia Philippines Expo 2018 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

“We recognize that our millennial entrepreneurs have the drive and the capability to attain their goal of economic independence,” said JG Puzon, chief executive of Posible. “We are now offering Posible as a viable alternative for them to achieve that goal.”

Posible Generation 2 offers a significantly upgraded device package from its previous counterpart. Its centerpiece is a sleeker device capable of more digital transactions than ever before.

The second-generation Posible machine offers the usual repertoire of its comprehensive services including utility bills payment, select government fees, money services, micro-insurance, mobile loading, online gaming credits and ticketing.

With its larger touchscreen display, Posible Gen 2 now offers inventory management for small and medium businesses. It is now also possible to create and implement loyalty and

rewards programs—tools essential for growing existing and start-up businesses.

On top of this is the opportunity to own and operate an online retail store, right within the device itself. The Posible shopbox feature offers access to a variety of online and traditional retailers and instantly converts a business location into an online shopping hub for the community.

“What we want for this new generation of Posible devices is to give our young entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed in the marketplace,” Puzon said.

“Giving our second generation package more customer-friendly features means more possibilities that we can offer kantopreneurs and micro-syantes not only in the

future, but even today. Of course this new feature will also be available to our existing Ka-Posibles using the first-generation device,” he said.

“With their energy and optimism, we want to par tner with young entrepreneurs so we can achieve the vision of a financially-inclusive Philippines,” Puzon said. “Their business acumen and digital-savvy will help connect more Filipinos to an increasingly digital financial system.”

“More so, with Posible Shopbox we want to enable the Filipino consumer in the barrio to enjoy online retail shopping, connecting them to the digital economy and spurring local economic growth,” Puzon said.

FOREIGN experts will share their experience and fresh insights on the global retailing landscape at the 25th National Retail Conference and Stores Asia Expo 2018 slated Aug. 9 to 10 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

NRCE 2018 overall chairman Frederick Go said the Philippine Retailers Association Conference Committee carefully picked the speakers in this year’s edition of the retail conference, to make sure the attendees will fully grasp the message of the theme “Reinventing Retail.”

“This is a call to action for us in the retail industry. We are aware of the need to innovate further amid the digital disruption and the everchanging global retail landscape,” said Go, the PRA vice chairman and president of Robinsons Recreation Corp.

NRCE 2018 Conference chairman and Rustans Commercial Corp. president Bienvenido Tantoco III stressed the need to make retailers fully aware of the challenges and opportunities brought about by what is now known as digital disruption.

“Disruption is not always negative, especially if you know how to adapt and reinvent yourself side by side with the changes that are taking place on the technological front,” he said.

Wijnand Jongen, a globally recognized author, futurist and authority on retail and e-commerce, will lead the Day 1 speakers. Jongen is the co-founder and chairman of the executive committee of E-commerce Europe, the European e-commerce umbrella organization with over 75,000 members.

Day 2 of the conference will feature two global retail experts Central Pattana (Thailand) deputy CEO Wallaya Chirathivat, and Forum for International Retail Association Executives chairman Massimo Volpe.

To speak on the topic “Key Global Megatrends: Putting the Consumer at the Heart of Business” is Swee Woon Tan, head of sales for ABCs (Agencies, Banks and Consultancies) and TGAs ( Trade, Government and Academics) at Euromonitor International (Singapore).

Jane Ng, executive director of Kantar Millwardbrown, will discuss “Growing up and Staying Young: Achieving brand growth and resilience through meaningful disruptions.” Beijing Bingobox Technology founder and CEO Chilam Chen will discuss “Retail of the Future: Unmanned Supermarket”--the latest trend in the supermarket industry utilizing Artificial intelligence.

Santanu Dutt, Amazon Web Services head of solutions architecture for Malaysia and the Philippines, will discuss “Innovations at Amazon.”

TaskUs senior vice president for Southeast Asia Robert Hayes will give a presentation on the topic “Call to Action/Deliver the world’s best experiences.”

Xin Yi Wong, sustainabilit y manager at H&M (Singapore), will demonstrate that “Fashion can be sustainable, and sustainability can be fashionable.”

“Dare to dream!” will be discussed

by Dreambig World (Spain) CEO Juan de Lascurain, a designer from Mexico.

The annual NRCE is acknowledged as the biggest and most important retail event in the Philippines.

Business

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PH CONTINUES TO GROW TIES WITH CHINA THROUGH EXPO THE 14th China Machinery & Electronics Brand Show 2018 will run from Aug. 16 to 18, 2018 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City to showcase China’s latest line-up of machineries on power and electrical products, machinery, automobile, hardware tools and household electric appliances.

Spearheaded by the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products, a selected group of manufacturers from China will be participating in business matching sessions to connect with potential partners here in the Philippines.

The B2B sessions will be in conjunction with the expo.

The current administration has been very vocal with its thrust t o w a rd s fo s t e r i n g s t ro n g e r economic ties with neighboring Asian countries, China among them. This move proved to be very beneficial to the economy.

Now on its 14th year, the China Machinery and Electronics Brand Show is yet again setting the stage to open trade opportunities— connecting Chinese manufacturers with potential local distributors and importers.

Global-Link MP Events International Inc., together with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products are working hand-in-hand to ensure that the event surpasses its steady-growing statistics over the years. In the past year, the expo was visited by more than 18,000 visitors in its three-day run. “ We are ver y pleased with the yearly results of the show that is why we keep on coming back. The Chinese delegation has nothing but good words to say to the organizers—very good quality and quantity of visitors is consistent year after year… the potential is very big in the Philippines,” said Zhang Yujing, president of CCCME.

ROMANIAN LADY BOSS OFFERS TO AUTOMATE WORK IN MANILA A

ROMANIAN lady executive believes that automation holds the key to improving labor productivity in the Philippines. Instead of replacing workers, the robotic process automation will augment their skills and make them more efficient and productive, she says.

“The Philippines is one of the markets that we consider to be growing in the next six months to one year. In this direction, we are going to hire local sales, pre sales, engineers who are going to be based in Manila. They are going to serve customers and partners in the Philippines. And the plan for the long term is to open an office here,” says Andra Malina Platon, the 30-year-old executive in charge of the Asean market for UiPath, a leading RPA provider in the world.

“UiPath comes from ‘user interface’ and ‘path’ which means way. We created the name because we wanted to associate the technology with the user experience that it can offer,” says Platon, who is based in Singapore, but travels to the Philippines as often as once a month, to oversee some global customers with shared service hubs in Metro Manila. She is also recruiting a Filipino team ahead of the possible opening of an office here.

“We call our company a robotic process automation company. Actually it is a software that is able to automate business processes. Generally, we associate our technology with the eyes and the hands of the humans. So anything that a human can do on a computer, UiPath software is able to detect those movements on the computer, translate these process steps into automated workflow. And that would be performed by our robots,” says Platon.

UiPath, which was started in 2005 by Romanian entrepreneur Daniel Dines in Bucharest, is now a global company based in New York with 1,500 business customers and government agencies in 15 countries.

“UiPath started in 2005 in Bucharest, Romania in eastern Europe. At that time, we were creating software libraries for developers. So we were always a software product company. In 2016, we moved the headquarters to New York. Our European headquarters is in London,” says Platon.

RPA is a young segment of the technology sector, which has developed over the past couple of years. Together with artificial intelligence, RPA supports the digital business revolution. UiPath has recently raised $153 million in series A and B funding from Accel, CapitalG, KPCB, Credo Ventures, Earlybird’s Digital East Fund and Seedcamp. This valued the company in excess of $1.1 billion.

“The entire RPA market has grown very fast in the last two years from the very beginning. UiPath actually grew ahead of the market. If you look at year-on-year growth in RPA market, UiPath grew faster because of the technology and the product. And this will continue to happen in the next two to three years,” she says.

UiPath’s business grew 238 percent in the first half of 2018, crossing $100 million in annual recurring revenue, a key financial metric for subscription software companies.

Platon says the company had a small team when it developed the RPA business a couple of years ago. “At that time, we did not have finance, legal, marketing, sales operations. So we were doing almost anything. That was a very challenging period. We learned to do many things. The startup environment gave us the opportunity to learn legal part, finance, how to deal with customers, and participate in events. We had to move very fast.

We had about 100 customers, 100 plus partners even then,” she says.

Platon says UiPath is now present in 21 cities across 15 countries. “We have another 20 plus countries to open in. Probably by the end of next year, we would be in about 40 countries,” she says.

The company now has more than 1,000 employees and plans to increase its employee count by an additional 50 percent by yearend.

One of the potential markets it is looking at is the Philippines which has a thriving business process outsourcing sector.

UiPath head of Asean region Andra Malina Platon “I started to travel to the Philippines in November last year. Since that time, I am traveling once per month. This is due to the fact that we have here a number of global customers who have their shared service centers.

We also started to engage with local Philippine companies and third, we have partners like Accenture, PwC, Deloitte, EY and KPMG who are present here. We also have some local partners like Indra and Pointwest whom we started to work with to build local capabilities for RPA,” she says.

Global customers include American Red Cross, BMW, Carlsberg, Dentsu, Fujifilm, Japan Airlines, Korea Telecom, Landmark Group, LG, Manpower, Mizuho Financial Group, NASA, Pandora, Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Insurance Inc., SMBC Group, US Department of Defense, US Department of Homeland Security and Wärtsilä.

Platon says that in the Philippines, UiPath now has customers in the BPO and insurance sectors.

Platon says she is also in talks with some of the largest Philippine conglomerates to help automate their operations. She says this will not replace workers, but will drive efficiency and effectivity in the workplace.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

TECHNOLOGY TO SUPPORT, NOT REPLACE FILIPINO BPO WORKERS TECHNOLOGY will augment what humans do, and will not replace Filipino employees in the business process outsourcing sector, according to an industry leader.

“In the BPO industry especially, technology will be an enabler by making processes more efficient and making things happen faster. At the same time, with 83 percent of customers always wanting to speak with another human to explain and answer their doubts and queries, there will always be a need for human interaction and so a need for humans in the BPO sector. Technology will enable more humanto-human interaction, not replace it,” says Sudhir Agarwal, the chief executive of Everise and C3/ CustomerContactChannels.

He says that if the Philippines is to remain a global leader in the BPO sector, it needs to innovate and embrace technology. “Globally, the BPO market is predicted to reach $262.2 billion by 2022, with the Asia Pacific region receiving the lion’s share of growth at 8.5 percent. The BPO sector of the Philippines, which employs over 1.15 million people, is expected to capture 15 percent of the global outsourcing market

in the next four years. The Philippines possesses a talented workforce with high English language proficiency that contributed to driving the BPO sector’s growth up until now,” he says.

“At the same time, other Asian nations, including Malaysia and Vietnam, are also developing their own BPO industries, with Vietnam’s BPO industry achieving annual growth of more than 20 percent over the past decade - this competition will start to chip away at the Philippines’ position,” says Agarwal.

He says with rising client demands and expectations, there is a need to provide higher-value and more complex services.

“BPO centres are expected to service customers through multiple channels such as voice, text, social media and chat bots. Technology will allow the Filipino sector to do this. AI, automation and other innovations will take away many of the mundane and routine tasks that are currently carried out by BPO employees, thus freeing them and enabling them to focus on highervalue jobs that involve more customer interaction.

Besides delivering a higher level of analysis for clients,

AI will be able to merge and connect all customer services channels from online to text to voice, resulting in better service levels and ultimately future-proofing the BPO sector in the Philippines, for years to come,” he says.

“What is so amazing about the injection of AI and technology is that it will enable the very same BPO employees to do so much more, at a faster pace and a better level of service and quality,” says Agarwal.

“Today, we handle so many things through our phone, including communication with companies and brands. Everise seeks to make this possible through its partnership with Microsoft, which allows us to implement AI solutions for clients that are tailored to their needs, through the C3 Labs. The result is BPO employees that are more productive and armed with more information on the customers that they speak to, enabling faster and better customer service,” he says.

“Automation and AI are here to help Philippines move up the value chain, leading to an increase in midskilled jobs and high skilled services,” says Agarwal.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

FUTURISTIC OPPO FIND X ARRIVES IN PH

By Darwin G. Amojelar OPPO Find X, one of the most futuristic smartphones, has finally arrived in the Philippines.

“We are very excited to officially launch our newest flagship smartphone in the country. Beauty and user experience are some of the things that Filipinos look for and appreciate in a smartphone, and the Find X definitely elevates these basic needs with its premium, pioneering features,” Jane Wan, Oppo Philippines vice president for marketing, said.

Oppo Find X made its global debut on June 19 at Louvre Museum in Paris.

The launch marks a massive milestone for the technology giant as it reintroduces the premium Find Series.

After years of future-forward concepts, consumer behavioral research and meticulous product development, Find X has finally surfaced and there is nothing ordinary about it—it is geared to rival any other flagship smartphone in the industry and succeed.

“Find X carries the user-centric integrity

of OPPO smartphones, yet it transcends any other smartphone in terms of overall design and performance,”Wan said.

Eason de Guzman, Oppo Philippines public relations manager, said demand for Oppo Find X in the Philippines is “encouraging.”

“It is encouraging both internal and external because this is the first time that we have a flagship smartphone after four years,” De Guzman said.

“In terms of consumer perception, we actually gained a lot of traction due to our launch in Paris,” he said.

De Guzman said Oppo is currently number two in the smartphone market in the Philippines.

“We are currently gaining around 17-percent market share in the Philippines,” he said.

The Find X carries the purposefully crafted features and user benefits found in all Oppo smartphones, but its elevation is credited to its seamless combination of distinctive art and front-line technology.

Its unrivalled sophistication, per-

ceived at first glance, is complemented by innovative concepts which Oppo has developed through the years to come together in one powerhouse device. Fit for an aspirational, digitally-driven lifestyle, Oppo Find X embraces its role as the global smartphone brand’s newest flagship model.

The body of the Find X is a stunner, raising the bar for premium smartphone

design. It exhibits a sleek 6.4-inch panoramic arc screen and is the first smartphone to achieve a 93.8-percent screen-to-body ratio—the highest in its class, allowing for the most expansive viewing experience possible.

A driving force for this feature is the breakthrough 3D stealth camera, which has a sliding structure to be able to hide the camera when not in use. When the

camera is needed, it discreetly slides up to take photos.

With strong photography game becoming a norm among digitally-savvy consumers, photography is levelled up as the Find X incorporates a 25MP front camera and 16MP+20MP dual rear cameras. Its other camera components that allow for the most flattering photos and controlled picture quality are the 3D structured light module, flood illuminator, infrared camera, proximity sensor, dot projector, receiver and RGB camera.

Oppo Find X also pushes boundaries with its performance, another vital part of any smartphone experience. The device is powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 platform and backed up by 8GB of RAM and a massive 256 GB internal storage. Battery problems are a thing of the past with Oppo’s signature VOOC flash charge technology for 4x faster charging than slower-charging smartphones.

The flagship Oppo Find X will be available nationwide starting Aug. 11 for P 49,990.

Tech & Gadgets

XIAOMI ANNOUNCES NEXT GEN ANDROID ONE SMARTPHONES

M

ADRID, Spain—Global technology leader Xiaomi expanded its Android One lineup with the introduction of Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite, which feature powerful photography capabilities and a host of notable upgrades from the previous generation.

Starting from P9,990 in the Philippines, the two devices encapsulate Xiaomi’s commitment to offering amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

The wildly successful Mi A1 launched in September last year as Xiaomi’s first Android One device. The two new devices announced today are set to take its Android One series to a whole new level, especially with the exceptional photography experience they offer.

Mi A2 is a photography powerhouse by sporting a 12MP + 20MP rear AI dual camera and a 20MP front camera. It is powered by the Qualcomm® SnapdragonT M6 60 SoC with the powerful Qualcomm® Artificial Intelligence Engine (AIE). The slightly smaller Mi A2 Lite is a great value package with a 12MP + 5MP rear AI dual camera and a 4,000mAh large battery. As a benefit of the Android One partnership both devices will have unlimited high quality photo storage with Google Photos to ensure users will never have to worry about running out of photo storage.

“Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite are two devices that will take our win-win partnership with Google to new heights, following the success of Mi A1 last year. With an amazing user experience that well exceeds people’s expectations, offered at an honest price, our Android One series has now developed an excellent reputation and allowed us to win over the hearts of many more users in our global expansion journey,” Xiaomi Senior Vice President Wang Xiang said.

“We’ve been blown away by the positive response to the Mi A1 over the past year,” said Jamie Rosenberg, Google’s Vice President of Android and Google Play Business. “We’re thrilled to expand our Android One partnership this year to introduce two great new devices, the Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite. We can’t wait for consumers around the world to see and experience them.”

Mi A2—Beautifully designed, with powerful 20MP dual cameras Mi A2 features a stunning 5.99-inch 18:9 Full Screen Display, protected by a 2.5D Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 panel, in a beautifully-designed aluminum unibody with a curved back panel that is tapered towards the four sides. Measuring just 7.3mm thick, Mi A2 offers great aesthetics and ergonomics at the same time.

With a 20MP Sony IMX376 front camera and a 12MP + 20MP AI dual camera—one of the most powerful setups in this price range, Mi A2 takes gorgeous photos that are sure to impress.

Mi A2 is a dream come true for those who love selfies. The 20MP front sensor features Super Pixel technology that combines the information of four pixels to create one large 2.0μm pixel, which greatly improves the sensor’s light sensitivity, resulting in clearer and brighter images in low-light conditions. Coupled with effects such as AI Portrait, AI Beautify 4.0 and HDR, as

The latest pair of pure Android devices from Xiaomi—Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite—offer excellent performance and powerful photography capabilities at an honest price

well as a 4500K front Selfie-light, taking a good-looking selfie becomes truly effortless.

The rear 20MP camera features the same Super Pixelenabled sensor with a ƒ/1.75 large aperture, which results in clearer, vibrant photos even in low-light conditions. It is coupled with a 12MP camera that has 1.25μm large pixels and a ƒ/1.75 aperture as well, which allows Mi A2 to take photos with beautiful bokeh effects. Another useful feature on Mi A2 is that users can manually select the 20MP or 12MP rear camera according to environment lighting, for example switching to the 20MP sensor when shooting in low-light situations to take advantage of the large 2.0μm pixels for brighter photos.

Powered by Qualcomm® SnapdragonT M660 platform with Artificial Intelligence Engine, Mi A2 offers a crisp, smooth experience. Advanced Kryo architecture, coupled with up to 6GB LPDDR4x RAM, means Mi A2 offers a perfect blend of performance and power-efficiency.

Mi A2 Lite—Dual camera, two-day battery Mi A2 Lite is one of the first Android One devices to feature a unique 19:9 display. This 5.84” FHD+ full screen display is housed in a relatively compact body, making it very convenient for one-handed use. The screen also comes with useful features such as Auto Contrast, Reading Mode and Night Mode.

Mi A2 Lite sports a 12MP + 5MP AI rear dual camera, withthe12MPprimarysensorfeaturinglarge1.25μm pixels and phase-detection autofocus for fast and accurate autofocus. It also has a 5MP front camera that supports AI Portrait Mode, which means photos can come

with a bokeh effect even without a second lens.

With an impressive 4000mAh battery, Mi A2 Lite easily powers through 6 hours of continuous gaming and 34 hours of music playback. This is also thanks to the powerefficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 platform, which allows Mi A2 Lite to cope with demanding 3D games while maintaining excellent battery life.

Android One. Latest innovations from Google.

As Android One devices, Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite run pure Android 8.1 out of the box with the latest Google AI-powered software innovations built in, such as a smarter battery that adjusts to user habits. They also make it easy for users to find answers and get things done on-the-go with help from Google Assistant and Google Lens. In terms of security, users can rest easy with monthly security software updates and Google Play Protect built in. Moreover, Mi A2 and Mi A2 Lite support Google’s Project Treble, resulting in faster and easier system updates than other Android devices so users can get their hands on the latest features.

Mi A2 comes in two versions with the following pricing in the Philippines: 4GB+64GB for P14,990 and P17,490. Mi A2 Lite will be available at 3GB+32GB for P9,990 and 4GB+64GB for P11,990. The devices will be rolled out gradually in 40 markets around the world, with availability starting late July.

Lite For additional information about Xiaomi, visit: http://blog.mi.com/en/

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SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

EXPLORE USING GOOGLE MAPS‘ BIKE MODE

By Carmela Martinez MOTORBIKES are one of the most common ways to travel with 4.1M owners in the Philippines.

They move at different speeds than cars and are more flexible when it comes to traveling through traffic. In the past, motorbike riders had to do a mental calculation to estimate their arrival times based on a combination of walking and driving routes.

But not anymore.

Google recently released a brand new feature in their Google Maps, the “motorbike mode”. Its main function is to help Filipino bikers navigate the roads more effectively by delivering more accurate travel times based on machine learning models that reflect motorbike speeds, avoid restricted roads where motorbikes are not allowed, and an easy-to-memorize routes with a mapping system using landmarks along the way.

Google Maps has a lot of features including those that allow the user to explore a place by pointing out popular places or landmarks, a function that helps the user locate a specific place. The app also enables the user to see traffic conditions live and even one that sends an alert when transit vehicles are nearing, or at their stop but not one specifically for motorbike riders.

Google is dedicated to providing the most local and relevant experience to meet user’s needs. This feature is made in hopes to make travelling via motorbike easier in the Philippines. The company is offering a helping hand to motorbike riders so they can reliably and confidently go where they want to go in order to keep moving forward.

Here’s how it should look like:

SAMSUNG GALAXY J8: BANG FOR THE BUCK

By Jordan Thomas Pimentel

SAMSUNG unveiled the latest of their J series that is bound to bring the best bang for your buck after it was announced in May. Featuring a 6-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 1480x720 resolution for a sure crisp and vibrant display, a 2.5D curved glass jackets the modern 18:9 Infinity Display, an Octa-core Snapdragon 450 chipset to power it, the Samsung Galaxy J8 is a high-end smartphone with a modest price tag.

It comes with a 4 GB RAM and 64 GB of Internal storage, with an option to expand up to 256 GB via a microSD card. It runs on Android 8.0 (Oreo) In taking photos, the J8 comes with a dual camera setup on the back: 16MP primary camera and a 5MP secondary camera. On the front, a 16MP camera perfect for selfies and self-doc-

umentation photos and videos for budding and professional vloggers and the like.

One can record 1080p videos perfect for recording pets getting bamboozled with blankets, favorite musicians singing live, convicts giving a hilarious soundbite, basically anything in HD. The Galaxy J8 utilizes a massive non-removable Li-Ion 3500 mAh battery that could spare enough for the day inspite having a session or two of any battle royale themed games (which are notorious battery drainers), or a solid 2-hour marathon of tv shows and movies.

As a standard for most phones lately, the Samsung Galaxy J8 is equipped with a rearmounted fingerprint scanner with face unlock for extra security.

Priced at P15,990, the Samsung Galaxy J8 is a premium phone at a mid-range price and will be available in Samsung authorized stores and retailers nationwide on Aug. 4.

Priced at P15,990, the Samsung Galaxy J8 is a premium phone at a mid-range price and will be available in Samsung authorized stores and retailers nationwide on Aug. 4

DEVANT CELEBRATES WITH A BANG VIA ‘15.15.15’ THIS 2018, home-grown TV brand Devant is celebrating its 15th year of providing high-quality TV products in the country.

Entertainment has truly come a long way— from basic LCD TVs to the most recent featurepacked Quantum Ultra HD TVs—and Devant has been part of many Filipino households through these years of TV entertainment evolution by constantly providing a wide range of products that cater to the needs of the consumers.

As technology advanced throughout the years, smart devices have captured the attention of today’s generation and have become popular sources of entertainment. Due to the convenience it provides, smart devices have become must-haves for every individual in the era of tech-savy consumers. However, this development somewhat created a “bonding with myself” attitude, especially among members of Filipino families. Rarely will you see them talk and bond with each other at the end of the day because most of their attention is focused on their own devices.

Devant has always believed that regardless of how their day ended, it is of utmost importance that family members get together and enjoy common activities where they can share their feelings and other emotions while at the same time be entertained. Devant has continually advocated that families remain tied together, with the TV at the center of their precious family moments to help keep their tight bond and promote a stronger family relationship.

Want to spend family nights or weekend moments the best way possible? Whip up a steaming bowl of popcorn, or crack open those bags of chips, match it with your favorite drinks, and spend quality time with your loved ones by sitting in front of a TV and bond over your favorite movie or TV series. These precious moments are truly priceless compared to hits, likes or shares online.

As its way of giving back to its Filipino consumers for 15 successful years in the Philippines.

Devant announces its latest exciting TV promo.

Devant’s “15-15-15” Anniversary Promo aims to allow more families to own a big screen TV and help keep family ties deeply rooted than ever.

Starting from August 15 to August 19, 2018, customers may avail of Devant’s 49DL541 49inch Digital TV with ISDB-T antenna at a special promo price of P15,000.00 only.

The promo entitles one customer to one (1) TV unit reflected in one (1) invoice and is available for straight or cash payment transactions paid in full amount within the promo period only. The TV product shall be a stand-alone unit, with no other premium items included. Other installment promos and cash discounts are not valid in this specific promo, and is also not applicable to Business-to-Business, institutional or corporate purchases.

The Devant “15-15-15’ Anniversary promo is available in leading appliance stores nationwide.

For more details, follow Devant on Facebook, www.Facebook.com/devant.tv or visit their “15-15-15” Anniversary Promo website at www. devant151515.com.

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TECH & Gadgets SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

OPPO RAISES BAR WITH FIND X

By MJ Blancaflor and Dexter Tilo

O

PPO raised the bar in smartphone technology as it unveiled Find X, a powerhouse device with a seamless combination of distinctive art and front-line engineering.

The flagship smartphone yet of the techno giant redefined phone designs with its retractable camera and a screen-to-body ratio highest in its class for a wider viewing experience.

Perhaps the most innovative feature of Find X is the 3D stealth camera, which has a sliding structure that hides the camera when not in use. When the camera is needed, it swiftly slides up for only 0.5 seconds to take high-quality photos.

Photography is levelled up as the Find X incorporates 16 MP + 20 MP dual rear cameras and a 25 MP front camera, equipped with AI-enhanced technology that analyzes facial features and suits the need of selfie-enthusiasts.

Find X also pioneers in 3D Structured Light Technology with a front camera utilizing 15,000 facial dot recognition to unlock the phone and secure payments.

With its curved sides and round corners, OPPO’s latest smartphone takes pride of achieving a 93.8% screen-to-body ratio, the highest among all models as of press time. It also exhibits a vibrant AMOLED panel with 2340x1080 pixel resolution and a stylish 6.42” panoramic arc screen with reduced bezels.

Powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, one of the most powerful mobile processors in the world, Find X sets great benchmarks and provides amazing performance. Backing that up is 8GB of RAM and a massive 256GB internal storage which operates on a Color OS-customized Android 8.1 (Oreo).

“Find X carries the user-integrity of OPPO smartphone, yet it transcends any other smartphone in terms of overall design and performance,” said Jane Wan, OPPO Philippines vice president for marketing.

OPPO also announced an Automobili Lamborghini Edition of Find X. Covering the slender phone body is the same carbon fiber present in

The Oppo Find X will be available nationwide at an SRP of P49,990, starting Aug. 11.

elegant sports cars that creates a different smartphone experience for the market and transverses the luxury of a Lamborghini.

It is also available in the Super Flash Edition with Super VOOC technology which allows the phone to be fully charged in only 35 minutes. With this technology, this edition can also have a charging power that can exceed 50 W, the first of its kind.

“We believe the Filipinos deserve nothing but

the best of our products. Find X will surely start a new era for us,” OPPO Philippines’ CEO James Ma said during the product launch Tuesday.

The phone comes in two colors: Glacier Blue and Bordeaux Red. It will be available nationwide at an SRP of P49,990, starting Aug. 11. Pre-order reservations are currently being accepted from interested buyers, who provide a down payment of P5,000 in selected OPPO concept stores.

LG: HELPING IN FIGHT VS GLOBAL WARMING GLOBAL warming is taking its toll on the Philippines. According to a 2013 World Bank report, our country is one of the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change-related weather events.

The Philippines sits in a region with particularly harsh weather patterns and rapidly rising sea levels. While climate change doesn’t cause individual storms, research has suggested that it could make storms stronger and more frequent—as we have witnessed in the last few years.

Now, more than ever, there’s a need to employ sustainable green growth strategies to avoid the harrowing effects that arise from the impacts of

climate change. Until recently, sustainable development was simply a desire and an obligation so as to leave a healthy planet to future generations; today it is the only conceivable option.

Many commercial trades and big businesses in the Philippines are trying to reconcile protecting the environment with an industrialised society. Widespread consciousness about the effects of climate change has encouraged savvy, forward-thinking businessmen and building owners to leverage investment in efficient, ecofriendly solutions that combat global warming and minimize carbon footprints. Pricey costs

and installation requirements may pose a consistent challenge; fortunately manufacturing breakthroughs have made highperformance, energy-efficient technologies more affordable and accessible.

LG Electronics was one of the first companies to invest in a multitude of solutions that support green building initiatives and energy management. The market is primed for air conditioning solutions that advance energy savings and reduce consumption, but utilize the latest technology as well. In response, LG is providing greener refrigerants, inverterbased designs and revolutionary innovations that optimize electrical efficiency to match with system performance.

At the heart of LG’s commercial air conditioning products is the cutting-edge Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology, which minimizes efficiency losses over time, resulting in longterm cost and energy savings for the building owner. LG’s VRF systems also are designed to eliminate the added expense of duct work, resulting in a more efficient building infrastructure and, in turn, a more attractive aesthetic. VRF solutions have become increasingly sought after in a variety of settings, such as offices, condo developments, hotels, hospitals and schools.

IPHONE DISPLAY REPAIRS AT POWER MAC CENTER POWER Mac Center’s Apple Authorized Service Provider is now offering replacement repair services for damaged iPhone display screens. It is the first Service Center in the country to do so. Coverage includes cracked screens and broken displays or any related issues.

Customers with iPhone 6s or later models can take advantage of the new offering exclusively available at Power Mac Center branches in Glorietta 5 and The Annex at SM City North Edsa.

Only Apple Certified Engineers are allowed to handle the repairs and only genuine Apple parts are used.

The turnaround time for repair depends on the availability of replacement stocks and the diagnosis. Meanwhile, price starts at P11,025.00 (inclusive of diagnostics fee and replacement parts) and varies depending on the unit. Payment may be made through cash, debit, or straight or installment basis for 3 months with 0% interest for select credit cards.

As part of Power Mac Center’s commitment to provide customerfocused service, it is also offering Express Service or same-day repair for an additional fee of P1,000.00.

As a special treat, all clients who avail of the new service will be given exclusive discounts on iPhone screen protectors and protective cases redeemable at the said branches.

“Accidents do happen to the best of us but Power Mac Center came prepared. We take pride in being the first to officially offer this kind of service to Apple clients in the Philippines. Since the servicing is done locally, it’s now more convenient and hassle-free,” said Power Mac Center Marketing Director Joey Alvarez.

For more information about the new service offering, call the Power Mac Center Hotline at 725-4762 (4PMC) or email serviceupdate@ powermaccenter.c om. Clients can also book an appointment by downloading the PMC Service App or through the Power Mac Center Facebook account at this link (http://bit.ly/PMCfbApp).

SMART, NOKIA, RED CROSS FORGE DISASTER RESPONSE COOPERATION SMART Communications and Nokia recently announced that they have received funding from the GSMA, the organization representing mobile operators globally, for a disaster response drone system.

The Nokia Saving Lives drone project, which will operate on Smart’s frequencies during emergencies, has been selected as a grantee by the GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund.

The Nokia Saving Lives program seeks to provide communications technology and technical assistance to emergency response teams. In the Philippines, Smart will provide high-speed connectivity for a drone-based system to help boost the disaster response efforts of the Philippine Red Cross.

The system consists of drones, a portable data center, a mobile broadband network, and applications like video streaming, gas sensing, mapping, and analytics, which can help Red Cross responders assess current status of lifelines and analyze immediate needs and gaps. This will enable Red Cross to provide emergency assistance to communities in more timely, effective and efficient ways.

Using Smart’s high-speed LTE connectivity and the portable Nokia Ultra Compact Network, the system can

also create a secure communication between drones, other equipment, and rescue team members.

The drone can be equipped with different types of cameras, sensors and speakers, and can also be used to carry first aid kits. The portable data center, meanwhile, is a computing and storage unit that can be used for immediate data analysis.

The initiative was presented to the delegates of the GSMA Humanitarian Connectivity Charter Regional Workshop for Asia-Pacific during a visit to the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation Emergency Operations Center. Representatives from the GSMA, humanitarian organizations and other telecommunications providers all over Asia attended the HCC meeting, held July 10 and 11 in Angeles City, Pampanga.

“We are proud to present this collaboration with our colleagues here in Asia and the rest of the world,” said PLDT and Smart public affairs head Ramon R. Isberto. “Disaster preparedness is one of our priority advocacies. At Smart, we provide continuous network service, as well as multi-platform technology and training, as we work with the government and other partners. We believe our communications support for the drones

will help enhance disaster response and, ultimately, save lives,” he said.

“The GSMA Disaster Response Innovation Fund is proud to be supporting projects that use mobile technology to assist and empower individuals or communities who are building their resilience to natural disasters, or who are affected by humanitarian emergencies,” said Kyla Reid, head of digital identity and mobile for humanitarian innovation at the GSMA. “This project from Nokia and Smart Communications is an excellent example of collaboration and highlights the positive role the private sector can play in strengthening response in the face of disaster.”

Christina Cabrera, head of Nokia Technology Center Philippines, said: “Nokia creates the technology to connect the world. The collaboration between Smart, Nokia Technology Center Philippines and the Philippine Red Cross brings the innovative Nokia Saving Lives solution for emergency situations into use—right here in the Philippines. To do this we build on the strength of Nokia’s engineering capabilities worldwide and especially on the expertise and motivation of our engineers in the Nokia Technology Center Philippines.”

The Nokia drones will operate in the Philippines using the LTE frequencies of Smart.

Destinations D1

sunday, july 29, 2018

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

@MStandardLIFE

6 travel beauty kit essentials

Where smart travelers stay

Packing makeup and other beauty products for a trip can be tricky. On one hand, you want to have all the essentials to look pleasant, but on the other, you do not want your vanity kit to take up precious luggage space.

The thing is, you only need these six things to look presentable throughout your trip:

BB Cream

BB cream is a multi-tasking product that moisturizes and evens out skin tone. Variants with SPF also double as sunscreen.

Ponds BB+Cream

WHAT A GUEST WANTS. Holiday inn Express in newport city offers 737 Superior Rooms equipped with basic amenities such as a comfortable bed, fast internet connection, and hot and cold shower, among others. Bernadette Lunas

By Bernadette Lunas

“S

Taying in a 5-star luxury hotel is great, but sometimes there’s a lot of unnecessary things there that you have but don’t use or don’t need.”

This is an opinion hotel general manager H.T. cheah shared with Manila Standard. For him, there are instances when a guest needs only the basics: a secure room, a comfortable bed, fast and reliable internet connection, and hot and cold shower.

Of course, holiday-makers and staycationers checking in a hotel for the purpose of pampering themselves welcome a bit more than a basic room and a fitness gym.

But travelers who are staying in Manila for a day or two, individuals on a business trip, or those flying out of the country from ninoy aquino international airport usually prefer only the essentials.

These travelers are the target market of the first Holiday inn Express in the country, located in the newport city development in Pasay city.

Formerly the Remington Hotel, Holiday inn Express is the mid-priced hotel brand of intercontinental Hotels groups offering affordable rooms equipped with basic yet modern amenities. according to cheah, the hotel's general manager, once renovations have been completed by early 2019, the hotel will offer 737 rooms and will be the largest Holiday inn Express in Southeast asia. as of early July, cheah said roughly 35 percent of the eight-story hotel has been renovated, starting from the first three floors. But they are currently accepting guests in the hotel’s old standard rooms and renovated rooms. “currently we have 534 rooms operating, both the old, which are the Standard rooms, and the newly renovated rooms,” he said.

Once transition is completed, Holiday inn Express will only have one room category, the 21-square-meter Superior Room, with either one queen-sized bed or two single beds.

Each Superior Room is equipped with the same amenities such as blackout curtains,

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Holiday inn Express features a 24-hour lobby café, gym, small meeting room, and coin-operated laundry.

comfortable beddings, a choice of firm or soft pillows, en-suite bathroom with hot and cold shower, seating area, universal power sockets, high speed Wi-Fi router, in-room safe, flat screen television, refrigerator and coffee and tea making facilities, hairdryer, and basic bathroom toiletries.

Facilities in the hotel include a gym, a meeting room, and a do-it-yourself coin-operated laundry (one token costs P120 and is good for one cycle). in-house dining comes in the form of the 24-hour lobby café offering breakfast buffet and a la carte meals. guests in a hurry or those leaving before the breakfast buffet opens can get a grab & go packed breakfast from 1:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. from the café.

Since the Holiday inn Express brand features a limited-service concept, room service

is not available, but guests can order from their room and pick it up at the lobby café. cheah said the café area and the entire lobby will also be renovated and will be called the great Room, a multi-purpose space offering various seating types—dining seating, high table and chairs, coffee tables—where guests can dine, relax, work, and meet with friends. construction will start at the end of July, and once completed, in six to seven months, cheah said it “may be the biggest great Room in all Holiday inn Express in Southeast asia.”

Holiday inn Express offers free airport shuttle to guests going to and from naia terminals 1, 2, and 3. it is 10-minute walk from the naia Terminal 3 via the Runway Manila bridge.

Call (02) 908-8000 or go to www.rwmanila. com for inquiries and more details.

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IloIlo’s IconIc landmark mercury rising

By BoB zozoBrado

iF yOu haven’t been to the Lopez Heritage House in Jaro, popularly known as nelly’s gardens, you haven’t seen the best of iloilo. i first visited the city when i was still in grade school, and you can imagine how “jurassic” that era is. My parents would take my siblings and me to iloilo during summer to visit relatives who lived in Jaro. Of course, we would pass by this heritage house often and every time we did, our parents would refer to it as “the palace.” The more i heard the tag, the

more i became curious as to what “the palace” had inside. it was not until a few years ago when my good friend, former Tourism Secretary narz Lim who is from there, invited me to visit iloilo. i grabbed the opportunity immediately because it has been decades since my last visit to the city, and my childhood curiosity on the interiors of “the palace” has remained unsatisfied through these years. The next thing i knew, i was already in iloilo, overjoyed that i finally got the chance to see the interiors of “the palace” and an added bonus came with the visit. i had the best “tour guide” one could ask for—the owner, nelly Hofilena Lopez. nelly’s gardens, or the Lopez Heritage House, was built in 1928 and was owned by Don Vicente Lopez and his wife, Elena Hofilena. named after nelly, the couple’s eldest daughter, the house, which sits on four hectares of prime land, is reminiscent of iloilo’s

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The imposing facade of iloilo’s most popular landmark, nelly’s gardens. glorious and aristocratic past. BrandDuring the war, the house was neared as the Queen of Heritage Houses, ly burned down by Filipino guerrillas the national Historical institute de- who were instructed by their superiors clared it as a national Historical Land- to burn every mansion they would see, mark and a natural Heritage House.

Turn to D2

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destinations

D2

sunday, july 29, 2018 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

FREQUENT FLYER

NoN-stop flights from hK to seattle InTernaTIonal airline Cathay Pacific now offers a nonstop flight service from Hong Kong to seattle. since the launch on March 31, the airline has been flying directly from HK to the us West Coast’s fastest-growing city four times a week through its airbus a350-900. Passengers aboard the aircraft enjoy a relaxing ambiance, comfortable seating, enhanced inflight entertainment system, and WiFi connectivity across all cabin classes.

FRONT DESK

MakatI shangrI-la stages weDDIng expo MaKaTI shangri-la Hotel, one of the favorite venues for grand celebrations, in partnership with rita neri event Planners, will stage an elegant wedding and celebration expo in its ballroom on sept. 22-23. dubbed Vows of elegance 2018, the event will feature the wedding and celebration industry’s crème de la crème to cater to those planning their big life events.

For 25 years, Makati shangri-la has had the privilege of serving not just the grandest weddings, but also memorable milestones that come after a romantic union—from the christening of the couple’s firstborn, first birthdays, girls blooming into beautiful women on their 18th birthday, and wedding anniversaries.

Contact the Events team at (02) 813-8888 or email events.slm@shangri-la.com for inquiries and more information.

Get your seafood fix at Pike Place Market community.

“We are very pleased to be introducing seattle and to provide more convenience and choice to our customers.

There are strong business, trade, and cultural ties between Hong Kong and the city and we believe there will be considerable demand for both business and leisure travel on this new route,” said Cathay Pacific chief executive officer rupert Hogg. dubbed as the “The emerald City,” seattle is the fourth largest export market in the united states and a thriving tech hub, home to a burgeoning startup scene. seattle is also a fantastic place to visit for discerning travelers. Known for its year-round greenery, the city offers beautiful and lush hiking trails for lovers of the outdoors, as well as magnificent views of Puget sound, lake Washington, and Mount rainier from the observation deck atop seattle’s iconic space needle (which, in itself, a setting for many romantic movie scenes).

enjoy the view atop seattle's iconic space needle.

The city is also celebrated for its quality dining options, with fresh seafood the cuisine of choice in its vibrant Pike Place Market community in the heart of downtown. There are also museums and attractions aplenty, with the seattle Children’s Museum, the Woodland Park Zoo, the seattle aquarium, and the city’s famous Museum of Flight providing great days out for families.

lovely event set-up at Makati shangri-la's ballroom

Heritage Hotel's deluxe twin room

Belmont Hotel undergoes Hospitality experience certification

herItage hotel celebrates 24th annIversary

belMont hotel unDergoes sgs certIFIcatIon

THe deluxe international hotel along roxas Boulevard, Heritage Hotel Manila, celebrates its 24th anniversary on aug. 2 with sumptuous deals for guests to enjoy. riviera Café will serve a southeast asian Feast where diners can indulge in a buffet featuring dishes like singaporean laksa, Hainanese chicken and rice, crispy pata, sinigang, nasi lemak, and more for P1,500 nett per person. lobby lounge, on the other hand, will offer limited edition 24th anniversary cake and drink.

The Heritage Hotel boasts 450 guest rooms, 12 function rooms, two grand ballrooms, swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and 24hour cyber room.

It is a favorite venue for different corporate events, association meetings, conventions, and weddings, among many others. It also offers a strategic location to stay at because of its proximity to the international and domestic airports, two major business districts, and shopping and entertainment places.

Call (02) 854-8888 for more information.

BelMonT Hotel Manila is the world’s first hotel to forge an agreement with sGs, the global leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company, for its Hospitality experience certification program. launched in nov. 2017, the certification program has been designed specifically for the hospitality industry to meet a variety of needs and provide solutions to issues encountered by the industry. “sGs is known for assuring the quality and safety in brands. Belmont strongly believes that our patrons deserve nothing less than that level of quality for their money’s worth. That is why we engaged sGs Philippines to be certified under the sGs Hospitality experience (HX), a program that infused international hospitality standards to various areas of hotel operations,” says Belmont Hotel Manila general manager lorenzo Tang.

The sGs HX certification consists of four modules—risk, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and quality of service experience. sGs Philippines, Inc., the local affiliate of the Geneva-based sGs, will be conducting the certification audits and other requirements under the program.

ceptions in the mansion; so did Prince enjoyed waltzing around the hall durChupra of Thailand, Imelda Marcos, ing the high-profile celebrations hosted and former President Cory aquino. by the lopezes. The poster beds in the Its Western Beaux-arts style facade, rooms, up on the second floor, are still so that the invading japanese forces with its ornately carved columns, very well preserved. The two floors are won’t use them as headquarters. and its cavernous family room inside, connected by a beautiful winding stairThe third child of don Vicente and where all the antique furniture and way handcrafted from tindalo wood. doña elena, lilia, together with The dining room has a uher husband, were the occushaped table and its 15-feet high pants then. They begged the ceiling has another opulent crysguerrillas to spare the house but tal chandelier which immediately YOUR weekend CHUCkLe they didn’t listen. just as keromesmerized me as I looked at it Two elephants meet a totally naked guy. sene was being poured all over in awe. The windows are almost after a while one elephant says to the other: the property, japanese soldiers floor-to-ceiling, allowing a lot of “I really don’t get how he can feed himself arrived and fought with the daylight into the room. with that thing!” guerrillas who no longer had the anywhere I turned, I saw time to accomplish what their beautiful pieces of antique furleaders wanted them to do. The niture and expensive european house survived the war in one piece. priceless paintings are displayed, re- items that easily point to the aristoThank goodness it did because its flect the extravagant lifestyle of Iloilo’s cratic past that this house has been a history became richer as it served as a old rich clans. part of. If only this house could talk, popular venue for high-profile events In the living room, the crystal chande- I’m sure it will have awesome stories through the years. after the war, the liers of european origin that adorn the of how the pedigreed old rich of the Governor-Generals of the Philippines ceiling conjure images of the ambas- past century spent their leisure hours, including Frank Murphy and Teddy sadors, esteemed politicians, and the with luxury very much the trademark roosevelt jr. hosted several formal re- elite and the beautiful who must have of their lifestyle.

IloIlo's...

From D1

This beautiful porcelain chest from europe is just one of the many valuable items in the mansion.

I’m glad that nelly lopez has opened her house to the public, for tours and for special events. In fact, so many grand celebrations of private individuals and corporate entities have been held there through the years. The expansive gardens fronting the house can accommodate

hundreds at any given time. so if you want to have the feel of luxury experienced by last century’s old rich, head off to nelly’s Gardens, Iloilo’s iconic landmark.

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

Entertainment

SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2018

D3

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

LIGHTS, CAMERA, MAGIC VIDEO-MAKING DIGITAL CONTEST AIMS TO DISCOVER, HONE NEW TALENTS

S

TAR Magic, the local entertainment industry’s premier talent management and development agency, is pushing the envelope further by formally opening its doors to a different kind of talent through the videomaking contest—Lights, Camera, Magic.

As a brainchild of the agency’s Chairman Emeritus Johnny Manahan, Lights, Camera, Magic (LCM) is essentially Star Magic’s very own contribution to ABS-CBN’s continued exploration of the digital platform and an effort to acknowledge the presence of the growing audience online.

For 26 years, Star Magic has paved the way for artists to express their talent in the performance arts, this time, LCM seeks to provide a venue for learning and collaboration for the new breed and aspiring storytellers, together with the industry experts and the brightest stars under Star Magic’s respected roster.

The tilt is open to amateur storytellers and digital content creators, 18 years old and a b o v e , of any

Khalil Ramos joins the roster of Star Magic talents who will select the finalists at the inaugural 'Lights, Camera, Magic' video-making contest.

nationality from in and outside of the country, who have a 2 to 3 minute narrative video that reveals not only their unique and strong stories, but also their creative and technical expertise.

Twenty shortlisted entries will be selected by a screening team composed of Star Magic’s home-grown talents such as Piolo Pascual, Nash Aguas, Khalil Ramos, Janus del Prado, Ketchup Eusebio, vlogger Renee Dominique and led by Star Magic’s very own, Johnny Manahan.

After which, three finalists would be determined via online voting and by the jury composed of some of the industry’s pioneers namely: Leo Katigbak, Head of ABS-CBN’s Special Projects and Film Restoration, Ronald Arguelles head of Channel Management—Cinema One and Velvet channels, and Ice Idanan, independent film director of Sakaling Hindi Makarating, Ania ‘ti nagan mo and Limang Libo.

Young and sought-after directors JP Habac (I’m Drunk I Love You, Maria and Oktopus), Victor Villanueva (Patay Na Si Hesus, Ang Nanay Ni Justin Barber, Abot-kamay and upcoming movie Kusina King) and Mikhail Red (Birdshot, Neomanila, Rekorder, and upcoming movies Eerie and Block Z) are also joining the esteemed jury.

Apart from winning P50,000 in cash, the finalists’ would have the full experience of developing their submitted entries into a 15-minute short video for digital entertainment; while being mentored by one of the three aforementioned young directors and with Star Magic artists as their videos’ headlining stars. Interested participants may send their entries starting today until Aug. 25.

Meanwhile, the top 20 finalists would be named after the voting period that runs from Sept. 7 to Sept. 19.

Get to know more about Star Magic’s latest milestone Lights, Camera, Magic by visiting lightscameramagic.ph or by following Star Magic’s official social media accounts to stay in the know about Lights, Camera, Magic.

Along with Johnny Manahan, Piolo Pascual leads the screening team of Star Magic's videomaking contest.

Millennial director Mikhail Red is one of the filmmakers who will sit on the jury's table.

LATER this afternoon, broadcast journalist Atom Araullo explores the realities, benefits, and hazards of working at night in The Atom Araullo Specials: Night Shift.

While most people are already winding down or getting ready for bed, the day is just about to start for some. In this documentary, Atom features some of these “night shift workers” and attempts to do their jobs as well.

Atom joins slaughterhouse workers who prepare the meat while most of the people are already asleep. He meets Oscar, a 61-year-old veteran on the job, with three decades of experience under his belt. Atom tries his hand at slicing huge chunks of meat to retail-ready portions for delivery.

At the same time, he ventures into cleaning the pig’s innards with the very tough and thorough Ate Merly. As a single mom, her late nights are spent working far from home for the sake of her two children.

It is also during nighttime that laborers fix the pipes that deliver water to homes.

As Atom takes on the challenge of going underground to lay new pipes, he meets

ATOM ARAULLO

WORKS THE NIGHT SHIFT

Broadcast journalist Atom Araullo takes on the challenge of going underground to lay new pipes

23-year-old Onyok who braves the job even with his left eye blinded by cataract. Onyok defies time by working day and night for his family in Tarlac.

As a journalist himself, Atom joins the adrenaline-filled job of a nightshift photojournalist like Vincent Go, who rushes to breaking scenes of trauma and drama, working on stories that would make the news the next day.

Atom also accompanies four children who are supposed to be asleep at night but are compelled to work due to poverty. Abandoned at an early age, they were left by their parents to fend for themselves.

Atom gets personal with the kids as they pick up garbage from house to house, and trade them for money for their day-to-day living.

Join Atom on another meaningful journey and extensive discussion of today’s issues in The Atom Araullo Specials: Night Shift, today at 4:30 p.m. on GMA-7.

Sofia Andres as Abby in "Mama's Girl.'

‘MAMA’S GIRL’ ON CINEMA ONE WELCOME a touching story of doting mother and daughter with Sylvia Sanchez and Sofia Andres in Mama’s Girl, the heartwarming film to premiere today on Cinema One. From Sylvia’s matriarch roles in hit Kapamilya TV series The Greatest Love and Hanggang Saan, viewers will witness another story of motherly love in this 2018 drama, which also stars Diego Loyzaga and Jameson Blake.

The film revolves around Abby (Sofia), an ambitious millennial coming out into the world, trying to be independent from her bubbly single mother Mama Mina (Sylvia).

As Abby struggles with love life and growing pains, she shuns her mother’s attempts to help her with the ropes of adulthood. Will Abby discover herself on her own or will she wear out eventually?

Also joining the Mama’s Girl cast are Yana Asistio, Heaven Peralejo, Karen Reyes, Arlene Muhlach, and Alora Sasam.

Discover how mothers know best in Mama’s Girlin the new Blockbuster Sunday timeslot, 7:00 p.m. on Cinema One, available on SKYcable Channel 56, SKYdirect Channel 19, Destiny Cable Analog 37 and Digital 56.

ERVIC VIJANDRE, KIM DOMINGO IN‘STORIES FOR THE SOUL’ AFTER defeating Lucas Matthysse of Argentina during their WBA World welterweight title bout, Manny Pacquiao returns to GMA Network’s anthology program Stories for the Soul with another tale about a dangerous game of love.

Topbilled by Ervic Vijandre and Kim Domingo, the episode entitled ‘Sa Aking mga Kamay’, which airs today, is inspired by the biblical story of Samson and Delilah.

Jep played by Ervic is a trustworthy police officer who is blessed with unique physical speed and agility. One day, he meets Darla (Kim), a wouldbe victim of robbery and saves her.

He immediately falls in love with her, not knowing that he is also falling into a game of seduction and deception with Darla.

Will Jep be able to figure out Darla’s real intentions? Will God eventually restore his divine gifts?

Find out what happens in Stories for the Soul today after Dear Uge on GMA.

Kim Domingo stars in today's episode of 'Stories for the Soul.'

D4

sunday, july 29, 2018

Desiree Carlos, Editor

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

Pets

The dreaded erlichia

By Mitch Canlas-Cordova

a

LL owners hate ticks and fleas.

But owners who know about erlichiosis or erlichia protect their dogs against ticks or garapata that infect dogs with this dreaded disease. erlichia is similar to dengue in humans, and can lead to death.

When a dog is bitten by a tick that is an erlichia-carrier, the dog needs immediate medical treatment.

It is not true that only dogs infested with ticks can have erlichia. a single bite is all it takes for the disease to spread inside the dog’s body and make him or her very ill.

This can lead to death if the dog is not given proper medical care.

It is very important to monitor a dog’s health daily to make sure they do not get infected.

When an owner has observed symptoms of erlichia in his/her dog, go to the vet and start the treatment before it reaches the stage wherein blood transfusion will be needed.

Symptoms: 1.Fever 2. Weight loss 3. Pale gums 4. Lethargy 5. Loss of appetite 6. Spots on the skin 7. Blood coming out from different parts of the body (nose, eyes, ears, mouth, anus,and genitals) Some owners tend to assume that when blood comes out of the nose and mouth, the dog is having a heat stroke.

There are owners who think blood from the anus is due to parvo virus while other owners think blood from the genital area is due to urinary tract infection (UTI).

This is not always true.

Thus, It is always best to have the dog’s blood tested. a test kit for ehrlichiosis normally costs P800 to P1,000. a complete blood count is also done to determine the level of infection, the platelet count, and the condition of the liver and kidneys.

The incubation period for ehrlichia is three weeks. You will see symptoms usually after three weeks. veterinarians will prescribe antibiotics, supplements to protect the liver and kidney, vitamin B complex for the nervous system, and natural supplements such

in dogs

>educate people, especially your neighbors and relatives, about the risk of spreading erlichia and by sharing tips on how to treat dogs with ticks. >Monitor the gum color, appetite, stool and urine, activities of your dogs (a single symptom requires a visit to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment). >Natural tick treatment can be done by putting a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar on the fur and skin every day. >Use food grade diatomaceous earth or DE as powder. >Check the walls of your place to see if there are ticks. Make sure to use safe cleaning solutions to eliminate the ticks.

Tips on cleaning your place: >always check the anti-tick product’s instructions and feedback, and the age of the pet indicated on the label or box before using the product. >Cleaning solutions are often poisonous so make sure to keep them away from your dogs and cats. >When cleaning the area, make sure animals are not in the same room as the smell of a lot of products should not be inhaled, or the product itself is toxic when licked. >When rinsing the area, please make sure you have thoroughly removed any residue which could be puddles of water or water running down the canals and on the roads that other stray animals might drink.

Please be conscious about the welfare and safety of other animals in the neighborhood.

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

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

BASHA, a five-year old-mixed shih tzu/poodle/lhasa apso is the “love of my life,” says Marichelle "Chie" Santos.

“She makes me smile when I am sad but she is very stubborn. She loves looking at cats and her toy Husky and Foxy,” Chie adds.

an arT show for a cause (Part 2)

Yuri, rescued by Save animals of Love and Light (Save aLL, Inc.), survived erlichia after medical treatment supervised by Dr. Anthony Prado Basa.

as coco nectar, tawa tawa leaves, or papaya leaves to raise the platelet count.

The treatment plan is usually for a minimum of 28 days to a maximum of 60 days, depending on the severity of the case.

Blood transfusion is advised when the platelet count is too low or dropping fast.

Thus, it is important to detect erlichia early through the tests and to start treatment immediately after diagnosis.

also, a veterinarian will give the proper dosage and frequency of all prescribed medicine and supplements.

Ways to prevent erlichia and to detect it immediately >Clean surroundings everyday. >Make sure your dogs are tick-free. >Do not allow your dogs to roam freely on the streets. >Do not let them interact with other dogs whose health status is questionable to you.

About the author: Mitch CanlasCordova is an animal rescuer and the founder of Furbabies TLC (an animal welfare group) which helps owners with sick pets. In photo with Ms. Cordova are her daughters who rescue cats: Marie who makes a special jingle for each cat they rescue and Angel who started rescuing at eight years old.

InterestIng facts about cats pet tales

By desiree carlos EVERyDAy, we discover new things about each kitten or cat in our family or household.

In 41 Things you (Probably) Didn’t Know About your Cat from Barks and Mewsings, a Trupanian blog, there are some things about cats that are very interesting to share: • Don’t worry when your cat sleeps a lot unless he/she is old (there are other symptoms of an illness that may necessitate a visit to the vet).

“The average cat spends roughly 2/3 of its life sleeping,” says Barks.

• Ever wonder how they can go through small openings in your garage or house?

“Cats don’t have collarbones – this allows them the flexibility to fit through openings the size of their heads,” Barks reveals.

• A clowder is a group of cats.

• All kittens are born with blue eyes, says Tips for Cats.com. Then the color changes as cat the grows, owners would have noted.

• Female cats are usually right-handed, while male cats tend to be lefthanded, according to two psychologists from Queen’s University Belfast.

• “Cats can purr while inhaling and exhaling. This is a technique that we simply cannot imitate,” says Love Meow.com.

My furry BesTie

Tigra has adopted an abandoned kitten, Ollie (tricolor), who now meows at her when he wants to be breastfed. Tigra has three kittens who were born a little over a week before Ollie was rescued by Save ALL in Paranaque.

• A cat can travel at approximately 31 mph over a short distance, says Jenni Bidner, author of Is My Cat a Tiger?

• A cat can jump as high as five times its own height in a single bound, adds Bidner.

• Kittens sleep a lot because a growth hormone is released while they are sleeping, says Random Facts.

• A kitten loses his/her baby teeth at

six months old.

• Cats are indeed CLEAN and possibly cleaner than a human. Cats spend 1/3 of their time grooming themselves.

• Cats easily climb trees because this is instinctive to them but they have to learn to climb down. This explains why we see cats being helped by a policeman in movies and in illustrated books.

”They also can’t climb down headfirst because their paws point the same direction, so they are forced to back down,” says Way of Cats, • “Cat urine glows in the dark when a black light shines on it. If you think your cat or kitten has had an accident in your home, use a black light to find the mishap,” according to 25 Strange But Interesting Facts About Cats.

• There are about 130,000 hairs per square inch on an average cat.

• A kindle is a group of baby cats.

• The first year of a cat is equivalent to 15 human years. at age two (2), a cat is 24 years old in human years. “each year thereafter, it ages approximately four ‘cat years’ for every calendar year. Thus, a 5-year-old feline would be approximately 36 in cat years,” according to Catster.

• Adult cats rarely, if ever, meow at one another. Kittens meow to ask something from their mother. So if your adult cat meows at you, your cat most likely considers you as his/ her mother.

• An average cat can live for 15-20 years.

People are not allergic to cat fur, they are allergic to cat DANDER. “Dander is made up of the microscopic bits of dead skin that cats (and also dogs, people and really any other animal with feathers or fur) naturally shed,” according to PetMD. • Cats have five claws on the front feet and four on the back.

Save animals of Love and Light (Save aLL) is a SeC-registered nongovernment organization which has rescued around 407 dogs and cats in 4.5 years, fights for animal welfare, rights, and protection. For more information, please go to their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ Save-animals-of-Love-and-LightSave-aLL-143 6948669914501/ In-kind donations for the rescued dogs and cats: • canned dog food for renal or kidney care, hepatic or ]liver care and digestive care for senior and medically challenged rescued dogs • Vistalens eye drops and Hypromellose eye drops for senior dogs who have cataract or eye problems • cat food such as Tripro or Whiskas • supplements and medicine such as Clusivol for kids, Immunol, Liv 52 and Nefrotec..

• medical supplies such as syringe fo any size, cotton, betadine, gauze pad and alcohol • cat sand and newspapers • cleaning materials (dishwashing, detergent soap, and vinegar for disinfecting) The Philippine Animal Rescue Team (PART) is a SEC-registered, non-profit and NO KILL animal rescue and rehabilitation center founded and run by a dedicated group of volunteers committed to changing the way animals are viewed and treated, not only in the Philippines, but around the world. For support and donations please go to their facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/PhilAnimalRescueTeam/ In-kind donations for the animal shelters: • CatFood,preferredbrandisCatCar eorSpecialCat(Toavoid • tummy issues • DogFood • KittenMilkandPuppyMilk • Cat Litter • Dog and Cat Toys • Dishwashing Liquid • Cleaning Detergent • Broom • Dustpan • Clean Newspaper • Cat Litter • Cotton buds • Cottons • Alcohol • Garbage Bags • Clean Sacks List of Participants Exhibit: Aencille Chuchie Gem Gracey Jaycee Jeriel Joei Kelvin Kenneth Krysten Loren Manta Margarita Maricel Marinela