Manila Standard - 2019 November 10 - Sunday

3-MONTH BREAK ON ROAD WORKS NEWS A2

DIVISIONS RIFE 30 YRS AFTER BERLIN WALL FALL

VOL. XXXIII • NO. 269 • 4 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

NEWS A4

DOH MULLS OVER PRICE CAP ON 120 DRUGS NEWS A2

PAMPANGA LASS NEW MS. INT'L

DUTERTE: GIVE LENI GREATER LEEWAY

MUTYA ng Pilipinas Cyrille Payumo bested more than 40 delegates from around the world and snared the country’s fifth Miss International title at the finals in Bandar Sunway, Malaysia, Friday night.

The 22-year-old Sushmita Senlook alike, Tourism Management graduate from Pampanga, also won Best in National Costume in a creation by Rich Sabinian. Payumo was crowned by outgoing titlist Astari Vernideani of Indonesia.

Named in the Top 5 were Miss Indonesia Gabrielle Patricia Mandalong, Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International 2019; Miss Ukraine Kateryna Kachashvili, Miss Tourism Global 2019; Miss Poland Joanna Babynko, Miss Tourism Cosmopolitan International 2019; and Miss Cambodia Chan Sotima, Dreamgirl of the Year International 2019.

Special Awards winners include Miss Thailand Chompoonut Ohungphon Miss Southeast Asia Tourism Ambassadress 2019; Miss Finland, Daniela Kalvilaine, Miss Friendship; Miss Australia Charli Kiarra, Miss Photogenic; Miss Bulgaria Ohanes Koyunian, Miss Talent; Miss India Singh Randhawa, Miss Social Media and Miss Indonesia, Miss Popularity.

Payumo took the challenge to compete at short notice and limited preparation as the original country bet to the pageant, Tyra Goldman, was disqualified due to technicalities on the Filipina’s place of birth.

Payumo’s taking over, as the Mutya first runner-up, proved to be a blessing in disguise.

Team Philippines, who flew to Malaysia led by Mutya ng Pilipinas President Cory Quirino, was so happy and proud for her.

By Vito Barcelo and Maricel V. Cruz

M

ALACAÑANG on Saturday said it would fully support new antidrug czar Vice President Leni Robredo in the fight against illegal drugs and called on everyone to give the Vice President “space” and allow her to perform her assigned task.

Robredo’s “backers” must not intervene, as she performs her duties as co-chairman of the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs, Malacañang said on Saturday.

“The Vice President must be given a wide latitude in outlining her own anti-illegal drug scheme and pursue, without interference from other quarter backers, her own agenda, which she envisions to be effective in addressing the drug menace,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

Robredo said body cameras were a must during anti-illegal drugs operations to protect both law enforcement agents and the public. “ Th e b o d y c a m s are indispensable for many reasons,” Robredo told reporters at the 14th Indo-Pacific Conference of the Theosophical Society in Quezon City.

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5TH INTERNATIONAL TITLE FOR PH.

Tourism management graduate Cyrille Payumo from Pampanga wins the Philippines' fifth Miss International title in a beauty pageant in Malaysia Friday night.

She beat more than 40 other titlists from around the world in glittering ceremonies in Bandar Sunway.

She was crowned by outgoing titlist Astari Vernideani of Indonesia.

DENGUE VIRUS SPREADS VIA SAME-SEX ACT SPANISH health authorities confirmed Friday a case of a man spreading dengue through sex, a world first for a virus which until recently was thought to be transmitted only by mosquitoes.

The case concerns a 41-year-old man from Madrid who contracted dengue after having sex with his male partner who picked up the virus from a mosquito bite during a trip to Cuba, said Susana Jimenez of the Madrid region’s public health department.

His dengue infection was confirmed in September and it puzzled doctors because he had not traveled Turn to A2

LUCIO TAN JR. COLLAPSES, STABLE IN HOSPITAL

By Peter Atencio, Darwin Amojelar and Joel Zurbano MORE than a week after assuming the presidency of Philippine Airlines Holdings, Lucio "Bong" Tan Jr. collapsed during a basketball game in Mandaluyong City and was immediately rushed to the Cardinal Santos Medical Center.

The 52-year-old son of Lucio Tan, the man behind PAL, was reported to have fainted while his team was playing ball against Exile at Gatorade Hoops Center in Mandaluyong on Saturday.

Tan was still unconscious when brought in for emergency treatment, according to sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.

In a statement from PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna, Tan Jr. is now in stable condition. twitter.com/ MlaStandard

“He is currently undergoing observation and will undergo a series of diagnostic tests,” added Villaluna in the statement.

“During this difficult time, the Tan family is requesting media and the public to respect their privacy,” the company added.

Bong Tan is president of PAL Holdings. He is also the coach of the University of the East’s Red Warriors men’s basketball team.

The young Tan is also the director/president of Tanduay Distillers, Inc. and Eton Properties Philippines, Inc.; director/executive vice president of Fortune Tobacco Corp.; director of AlliedBankers Insurance Corp., Philippine Airlines, Inc., Philippine National Bank, LT Group, Inc. He is also a director of MacroAsia Corp., Turn to A2

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CROSSOVER.

KIA Motors Philippines president Manny Aligada (left) and KIA Asia Pacific president Ted Lee raise their champagne glasses as they toast the new KIA Seltos SUV during the media launching held at the Blue Leaf Pavilion at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City. The latest crossover from Kia Motors is a subcompact SUV touted as being 'engineered for the epic journeys you’ll take', whether it’s an out of town trip or simply a city cruise.

Manny Palmero

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

3-MONTH BREAK ON ROAD WORKS START

DOH MULLS OVER PRICE CAP ON 120 MEDICINES

By Joel E. Zurbano BEGINNING tomorrow until next Jan. 10, the government will impose a ban on road works and diggings, and daytime (truck or van) delivery of goods in Metro Manila to provide relief to commuters and motorists during the Christmas season when traffic is expected to be heavy.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority earned the cooperation of the Department of Public Works and Highways, shopping mall operators, water utility and telecommunication companies in carrying this traffic contingency measure to ease the anticipated traffic during the holiday season.

MMDA general manager Jose Arturo Garcia Jr. said the agency would impose the three-month moratorium on road works to somehow reduce traffic congestion, particularly along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue.

“There will be a temporary suspension of road reblockings along EDSA and C-5 Road, except government flagship projects or during emergency cases,” he said.

Garcia said the moratorium on road works was also aimed at lessening the impact of the government’s ongoing infrastructure projects to heavy traffic situation until holidays were over.

The measure covered any diggings in the road right-of-way, including passage ways and sidewalks, within the cities or municipalities of Metro Manila for the installation, repair, or improvement of water pipes, telephone or telegraph wires or cable conduits, sewers and drainage systems, communication and power line improvements being undertaken by any government agency, public and private contractors.

Shopping center and mall operators also agreed limiting deliveries of nonperishable goods only at night-time or from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and no weekday sales, according to Garcia.

Delivery trucks and container vans loaded with goods, imported items and other saleable merchandise, piled up the streets of Metro Manila, which the government claimed, add to the worsening traffic during “ber months”—reference to the months of September, October, November and December.

Garcia said the ban will be implemented from Nov. 11 until Jan. 10 next year.

All shopping malls in Metro Manila will also begin their operations by 11 a.m., an hour later from the usual 10 a.m. opening time, during weekdays.

But the closing time, Garcia said, would depend on the malls although the MMDA had suggested 11 p. m. “It is up to them.”

The mall operators also agreed to deploy additional security personnel to facilitate long lines of vehicles going inside parking areas which cause traffic gridlock; and the removal of obstructions on loading and unloading bays in the vicinity of shopping malls.

Garcia said shopping malls are considered traffic generators during the holidays and delaying their operating hours by an hour could help ease traffic situation in Metro Manila.

There are at least 100 shopping malls in Metro Manila.

MMDA records showed that traffic volume rises 15 to 20 percent between November and December. It also showed that “midnight sales” or extended mall business hours contribute to the worsened traffic in the metropolis during this period.

The agency is also expecting the traffic volume to increase because of the influx of people and vehicles coming from various provinces in Southern Tagalog and Central Luzon.

LUCIO...

From A1 Victorias Milling Company Inc., PMFTC Inc., Lucky Travel Corp., Air Philippines Corp., Absolut Distillers, Inc., Asia Brewery, Inc., Foremost Farms, Inc., Himmel Industries, Inc., Progressive Farms, Inc., The Charter House, Inc., Grandspan Development Corp. and Shareholdings, Inc. Reports also showed that PAL was ahead 35-28 with 2:56 left in the second quarter when the game was stopped as Tan collapsed on the bench.

Bright Kho, in a Facebook post, said on Saturday,“Praying for Bong Tan. PAL Holdings president. Who collapsed during a basketball game in Xavier this morning.

Until now he is unconscious.”

Late last month, Tan was appointed as president of PAL Holdings Inc., the parent firm of the country’s flag carrier, after the resignation of Gilbert Sta. Maria.

Sta. Maria, however, will remain as president and chief operating officer of PAL, the operating unit.

During the elimination round of the 92nd University Athletic Association of the Philippines men’s basketball cagefest, Tan Jr. stood as coach of the University of the East Warriors, with Lawrence Chongson as assistant coach.

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OME 120 medicines may be subjected to maximum drug retail prices—if the Office of the President would stamp its approval to a recommendation of the Department of Health to have these medicines fall under an Executive Order.

“We have about 120 to 124 medicines subject to a possible or probable maximum drug retail price,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III told the “In Focus” news forum in Quezon City on Saturday.

“We are drafting an executive order, which we will submit to the Office of the President,” Duque said.

Earlier, Duque said the 120 drugs that might be subjected to MDRP covered those that address hyperten-

sion, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, neonatal diseases, and major cancers.

Under the maximum retail price scheme, prices of selected medicines are expected to have a mean price reduction of 56 percent from the prevailing market prices once an EO is signed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

“This is a very important component of the Universal Health Care Law, we need to bring down prices of very expensive drugs and medicines. You know, branded medicines in the Philippines are like 30 to 70 times higher of the same product of the same

brand in other countries,” Duque said.

“This is not acceptable for a middle income country like the Philippines.

We should ensure that people will have access to quality medicines,” he added.

The Health chief said the cost of medicines and treatment for chronic illnesses were a “very effective poverty converter.”

“You will be an indigent overnight that is why we really need to bring it down. This is the only agenda that we have is to make more accessible and bring down the price barriers to quality medicines,” Duque said.

DUTERTE: ...

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At the same time, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has targeted the establishment of drug rehab centers in every region of the country.

“Our target is to ensure there is one TRC [treatment and rehabilitation center] for every region and we are on the way to accomplishing that,” Duque said during the “In Focus” news forum in Quezon City.

Prior to the acceptance of her appointment as co-chairman of the Inter-agency Committee Against Illegal Drugs, Robredo said the government should adopt a health-based approach in curbing the illegal drugs problem in the country.

Robredo held her first meeting with ICAD member agencies at her office in New Manila, Quezon City on Friday afternoon, two days after she accepted President Rodrigo Duterte’s challenge to lead the anti-narcotics campaign by serving as co-chairman of the anti-drug body.

She will serve as ICAD co-chairperson, along with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Aaron Aquino, until June 30, 2022.

In a statement, Panelo said Robredo’s strategy to counter illegal drugs should be given support and not to create roadblocks and imagined conflicts, pitting her against her fellow workers of government by way of intrigues, as well as wild and off-tangent speculations engineered by the usual suspects.

Robredo called for the meeting to acquaint herself on the status of the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, a step demonstrative of her willingness to suspend all her negative notions about the drug war, mostly based on false if not exaggerated information and media hype, the Palace spokesman said.

“We take note that the Vice President stressed that the campaign against illegal narcotics can succeed even without bloodshed,”Panelo said.

“The pronounced policy of the drug czar appears to be in direct contrast of what they wrongly perceive to be the bloody strategy of PRRD, the detractors and nitpickers pounce on the apparent strategic contradiction and have raised the specter of, even this early, a collision between the appointee and the appointing power,” he said in a statement.

The Palace official said the Vice President must be given a wide latitude in outlining her own anti-illegal drug scheme and pursue, without interference from other quarter backers, her own agenda which she envisions to be effective in addressing the drug menace.

Panelo also said the Duterte administration is pleased to note that VP Leni was open to the suggestion that she oversee—and without putting her life in peril, personally join—any

operation by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency or the police against drug lords and pushers.

“The Vice President should also see the hostile and mortal realities on the ground that could pave the way for the reassessment of her previous adversarial position on the government’s relentless drive against prohibited drugs or her adoption of better and effective measures not heretofore done,” the Palace said.

The ICAD was created by Duterte through Executive Order 15 and is composed of 21 member agencies.

Among its functions is to ensure the effective conduct of all anti-illegal drug operations and arrest of highvalue drug personalities including street-level peddlers and users.

After her first ICAD meeting, Robredo set the tone for an evidencebased approach to the drug problem, which she said would prevent “senseless” killings in the conduct of operations against drug personalities.

While she emphasized that the drug problem in the country “should first be solved internally,”Robredo was amenable to a possible intervention by the United Nations Human Rights Council, if the Philippine government fails to punish drug offenders.

The 47-man UNHRC on July 11 adopted the Iceland-led resolution that seeks a probe into Duterte’s war on illegal drugs.

The adoption of the resolution mandates UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet to present a “comprehensive” report on the drug war in the Philippines during the council’s 44th session in June 2020.

On July 17, the President made it clear that he would ignore the investigation that would be initiated by the UNHRC, as he is only inclined to face a “Philippine court.”

“We take note that the Vice President called for the meeting to acquaint herself on the status of the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, a step demonstrative of her willingness to suspend all her negative notions about the drug war, mostly based on false, if not exaggerated, information and media hype,” Panelo said.

He urged the public, especially those who are opposed to the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, to refrain from creating “roadblocks and imagined conflicts” that may sow discord between Robredo and the ICAD members.

“We call on everybody to give VP Leni space, allow her to perform her assigned task and not to create roadblocks and imagined conflicts, pitting her against her fellow workers of government by way of intrigues, as well as wild and off-tangent speculations engineered by the usual suspects,” Panelo said.

BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT. Students from different schools in the

metropolis paint an LRT post as they participate in the beautification project of the capital city Manila near the City Hall during the weekend.

Norman Cruz No Duterte order for ‘bloody’ drug war About 5,779 drug personalities died in legitimate police anti-drug operations from July 1, 2016 to Aug. 31, 2019, based on data released by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on November 6.

Despite the drug-related killings, Panelo said the President did not order a “bloody” war against drug suspects.

“In that meeting, VP Leni stressed that the campaign against illegal narcotics can succeed even without bloodshed,” he said. “Noting that the pronounced policy of the Drug Czar appears to be in direct contrast of what they wrongly perceive to be the bloody strategy of PRRD, the detractors and nitpickers pounce on the apparent strategic contradiction and have raised the specter of, even this early, a collision between the appointee and the appointing power.”

The PNP and the PDEA have assured Robredo that the government’s anti-drug operations would be conducted within the bounds of the law.

Aquino has asked Robredo to join actual operations against illegal drugs for a better understanding of the anti-narcotics drive.

Robredo accepted the offer, saying she would like to see the real drug situation in the country.

Panelo said the Palace is “pleased” with Robredo’s openness to joining any operation by the PDEA or the PNP against drug lords and pushers, “without putting her life in peril.”

“She may see the hostile and mortal realities on the ground that could pave the way for the reassessment of her previous adversarial position on the government’s relentless drive against prohibited drugs or her adoption of better and effective measures not heretofore done,” he said.

Solve problems internally After her meeting with the ICAD, Robredo said she believes the Philippines should initially be given a chance to solve its illegal drug prob-

lems internally.

“I have said this time and again that I feel that our problem should first be solved internally. If I was already of the impression after going around, after meeting with the different clusters, after having all the information that I need to have, if I believe that the government is not doing anything to punish whoever needs to be punished or to put to justice whatever needs to be put to justice, then I don’t have any problems with inviting them over,”she said when asked by a reporter regarding her position in letting the UN conduct a review on the country’s situation with regards to its anti-illegal drug campaign.

Robredo said her meeting with the ICAD as its new co-chairman has updated her on what relevant agencies have been implementing to stop the proliferation of drugs, during which the Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy was also discussed.

While the initial meeting was only intended to brief the vice president, Robredo said she proposed the addition of two success indicators in the PADS —the monitoring of the surrenderers and the progress of those who have undergone rehabilitation.

A member of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Dangerous Drugs on Saturday said the panel was planning to invite Robredo to reveal her plans in solving the drug problem.

Dasmariñas City Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. stressed the need for Robredo to tell legislators to reveal her game plan in solving the drug problem and what laws are needed to enacted to help her in the undertaking.

“Definitely, [we will invite her]. To address the drug problem, there must be a united, concerted and well planned action to be taken not only by the executive but also the two other co-equal branch of the government, the judiciary for the swift action and decision on drug related cases filed in court and Congress for the enactment of laws to discourage drug trafficking,” Barzaga, chairman of the House committee on natural resources, said. With PNA

DENGUE...

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to a country where the disease, which causes severe flu-like symptoms such as high fever and body aches, is common, she added.

“His partner presented the same symptoms as him but lighter around 10 days earlier, and he had previously visited Cuba and the Dominican Republic,” Jimenez said.

“An analysis of their sperm was car-

ried out and it revealed that not only did they have dengue but that it was exactly the same virus which circulates in Cuba.”

A “likely" case of sexual transmission of dengue between a man and a woman was the subject of a recent scientific article in South Corea, Jimenez said.

In an e-mail sent to AFP, the Stockholm-based European Center for Dis-

ease Prevention and Control, which monitors health and disease in Europe, said this was “to our knowledge, the first sexual transmission of the dengue virus among men who have sex with men.”

According to the World Health Organization’s website, dengue is transmitted mainly by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which thrives in densely-

populated tropical climates and breeds in stagnant pools of water.

It is most serious—and deadly—in children, especially young girls though scientists don’t know why.

Dengue is most commonly caught by people traveling to hotter climates such as southeast Asia, Africa, Australia, the Caribbean and South and Central America. AFP

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RECTO: MONITOR PROJECTS

BY WAY OF CCTV, GEO-TAGS

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OVERNMENT should create a “digital map” of government projects and programs that will be implemented next year, to include “livestreaming” of big-ticket public works projects, according to Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto.

“Projects should be geo-tagged, and there should be an app in which the status of a project is just a click away,” Recto said.“What we need is a GPS—government project surveillance— system that will not only yield updated data on

construction projects, but also non-infrastructure deliverables like books and hospital equipment.”

Recto said if “remote monitoring” is now being used by owners of houses being built, then the same can be done in major government infrastructure projects.

He said in the case of infra projects that cost much in funds and inconvenience, “job-site cameras should be installed and real-time footage be made available to the public—if not, a time-lapse video can be uploaded regularly.”

“In this age of Facebook Live, these should not be hard and expensive to do,” Recto said.

He said if CCTV footage can lead to the capture of criminals, “so can it capture delays in construction.”

“Raw live video is the best feedback. Pwede

makita if work is on time, on budget and according to specifications.”

For President Duterte, it can be the best monitoring tool of how trillions of tax and borrowed pesos are being spent, Recto said.

“He need not wait for Powerpoint reports during Cabinet meetings if he can go on a virtual inspection of projects anytime by just looking at them at the phone of Senator Bong Go,” Recto said.

Recto said “remote monitoring” of government projects is not a new idea but one launched three years ago by then Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno.

Called Project DIME, or Digital Imaging for Monitoring and Evaluation, the DBM-DOST collaboration employs various technologies like Light Detection and Ranging, Open Roads Platform, Geotagging and drones.

STRONGER THAN SUPER TYPHOON. House Majority Leader and Leyte

Rep. Martin Romualdez (left panel) delivers his message of Malasakit to more than 6,000 ‘Yolanda‘ survivors during the 6th Year Yolanda Anniversary Commemoration at Tacloban City Astrodome. Romualdez said that the people of Leyte remained undeterred in looking to the future with greater confidense and rebuilding once more ‘our homes and our lives.‘

HAZING VICTIMS AS ACCOMPLICES? RIZAL SOLON FILES BILL

By Maricel V. Cruz WITH a total of 1,629 out of the more than 33,000 passing the written entrance examinations to the Philippine Military Academy, making a total of 1,629 possible hazing victims in the future, a lawmaker proposed that victims of the banned practice be considered accessories to the crime for their willingness to submit themselves to maltreatment.

Despite the official ban on the practice, hazing is still being practiced in the military and the police academies as well as fraternities in colleges and even in high schools, Rizal Rep. Fidel

Nograles said.

Thus, the first-term congressman is eyeing amendments to the antihazing law, to include the victims as accomplices, that he hopes will end the culture of impunity surrounding hazing.

Nograles, a member of an Ateneo Law School-based fraternity, neophytes who join organizations knowing that these engage in hazing practices should also be held liable under the law as accomplices.

“In many cases, students join organizations despite knowing that they will be hazed. We hope that they will be deterred from joining groups with a hazing culture if they are aware that they, too, could be

punished by the law,” Nograles said.

Such accomplices, however, have a way out—if they spill the beans and testify for the prosecution, noting that a “Code of Silence or Omerta rules certain institutions where hazing is practiced.”

In addition, he said victims who wish to speak out against the acts perpetrated against them could be made state witnesses.

“If we afford these victims the protection of the law, to give them assurances against possible retaliation, perhaps future hazing cases would prosper more than fail,” he added.

Conceding that the situation faced by military and police who

are maltreated could be different, Nograles’ bill provides that there would be two elements before a victim is considered an accomplice to hazing.

First, the applicant must intentionally and deliberately submit himself or herself to hazing.

Second, the victim must knowingly cooperate in the actual execution of hazing, meaning that acts of hazing must be performed and the victim willfully allowing himself or herself be subjected to such acts.

“If we are to end the culture of impunity in organizations that maltreat their prospective members, we should make the Anti-Hazing Law more stringent,” Nograles said.

BOOST POWER CAPACITY, STAKEHOLDERS TOLD A LEADER of the House of Representatives on Saturday urged stakeholders in the power sector to heighten efforts at increasing power supply to address power interruptions.

Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco, chairman of the House committee on energy, urged the Energy department and industry players to “act swiftly on the next round of biddings for muchneeded greenfield baseload capacity.”

“We call on both public and private sector to boost such crucial government initiatives in finding ways to provide adequate supply at lower cost to the end-users,” Velasco said.

His statement came after the Manila Electric Co. finished the signing of Power Supply Agreements with several providers last September for both 1,200 megawatts and 500 megawatts contract capacities to meet its supply needs for baseload.

The PSAs were signed in line with the Energy department’s policy for distribution utilities to contract capacities through competitive selection process to be administered by a third-party bids and awards committee.

Velasco stressed the need to secure capacity now given the rising demand for power.

“Our country urgently needs additional capacity to support the [Duterte] administration’s golden age of infrastructure,” he said.

He noted “the record number of Yellow and Red Alerts that plagued Luzon grid customers this year should not be allowed to recur in the coming years.”

Velasco said that ensuring the availability of baseload capacity will benefit the consumers.

Maricel V. Cruz

PREPPING FOR YULE. Giant Christmas lanterns are

installed by Manila City Hall workers along the city streets, ushering in the celebration for the longest Yuletide season in this side of the world. Lino Santos

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WORLD VISION COMES TO AID OF QUAKE-HIT KIDS, FAMILIES FOLLOWING the recent earthquakes in southern Mindanao, child-focused development and humanitarian agency World Vision has launched its relief operations for the affected people of Northern Cotabato, including the city of Kidapawan and the hardhit towns of Makilala and Tulunan.

“We are committed to support the government-led response in Mindanao. World Vision in the Philippines is particularly concerned for the wellbeing of children,” World Vision’s national director Rommel Fuerte said.

In the morning of Oct. 16, magnitude-6.3 earthquake of tectonic origin, hit the province of North Cotabato, with the epicenter located in the town of Tulunan. Days after, another quake of greater magnitude occurred from almost the same location. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology recorded a 6.6-magnitude earthquake, followed by another equally strong quake on Oct. 31 at 6.5 magnitude with a shallow depth of 2 kilometers which triggered more destruction and risk in the province.

Based on the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC, Nov 5), the series of earthquakes affected about 188,583 persons or 37,716 families in Regions XI and XII. Over 28,070 persons are currently taking shelter in 32 evacuation camps.

Meanwhile, there are 1,493 more families being served outside of the evacuation centers.

“They are in a state of shock and Cotabato is going to be more susceptible to aftershocks in the coming days, according to the NDRRMC. “We are appealing to our partners and fellow Filipinos for support so that we can respond to the immediate needs of displaced children and their families. We can do more together,” Fuerte said.

At least 1,075 schools were damaged, including about 26 totally damaged. According to the Department of Education, more than three million students are affected due to suspension of classes. Today, child-friendly spaces will be set up to provide psychosocial support to help children cope from the calamity, while temporary learning spaces will also be provided in coordination with the affected schools.

NPA LEADER, 7 MEN SURRENDER IN PALAWAN A LEADER of the Communist New People’s Army, identified as Almar L. Toting Jr. aka Ka Allan surrendered to the personnel of 3rd Marine Brigade, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019 at Sofronio Española in Palawan.

Ka Allan, 32, is the Commanding Officer of Bienvenido Valleber Command of SRMA GU-4E, and concurrent Field Operational Commander of KLG-South. He gave up together with seven of his comrades.

Ka Allan and his men decided to surrender due to the difficulties they have encountered in evading the unrelenting operations against the communist rebels conducted by the military and police forces under Palawan Provincial Task Force ELCAC. Negotiating team from the 3rd Marine Brigade also contacted Toting’s family, to ensure that his way out of the Communist-Terrorist Group is the best solution in embracing a peaceful and meaningful life, the military said.

He had been instrumental in the surrender of other NPA comrades. He helped the authorities in convincing his fellow Communist-NPA-Terrorists (CNTs) to surrender and lay down their arms, the military said.

Seven other members of NPA who voluntarily surrendered were the following: alias Ka Resmi (squad member); alias Ka Wilme (squad member); alias Ka Honey(medical officer); alias Ka Troy (liason) and alias Ka Justine (squad member), all under KLGSouth, SRMA GU-4E. A certain aka Ka Randy, a People’s Intel Network based in El Nido and a Ganap na Samahang Masa leader identified as Janeth from Maasin Brooke’s Point also submit themselves to the authorities.

Allan and his men also gave up the following: two M16 rifle; two 9mm; one shotgun; magazines; and ammunition.

Team WESCOM under Vice Admiral Rene V. Medina expressed his appreciation to the men and women of Joint Task Force Peacock; 3rd Marine Brigade; Joint CMO Task Group West; and Joint Intelligence Task Group West who facilitated the surrender of the rebels.

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CAGAYAN, APAYAO PLACED UNDER STATE OF CALAMITY

HE provinces of Cagayan and Apayao were placed under a state of calamity due to severe flooding brought about by torrential rains and the onslaught of Typhoon “Quiel,” leaving at least four people dead and one missing.

In a special session held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, members of the Apayao board presided by Vice Governor Remy Albano unanimously approved a resolution declaring the province

under a state of calamity. “ We have two casualties—a board member from Calanasan and a member of the Philippine National Police who died in a landslide,” Albano said.

Albano said the victims—Board Member Tolentino Mangalao, 54, of Calanasan, Apayao; and Cpl. Rommel Gumidam Jr. of Kabugao town—died after a landslide hit the house they were staying in at Kabugao town.

A village treasurer in Barangay Karagawan, Kabugao was also reported missing, Albano added.

Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba, for his part, said in a television interview Saturday that 11 towns in the province’s northwest part

remain flooded.

These were the towns of Sta. Praxedes, Claveria, Sanchez Mira, Pamplona, Abulug, Ballesteros, Allacapan, Aparri, Gonzaga, Sta. Ana ang Baggao.

Mamba said more than 7,000 people were in evacuation centers as of Friday night, accounting for 1,791 families in 72 evacuation centers.

“This is the first time we have experienced such flooding in the northwestern part of Cagayan,” the governor said.

An aerial shot of Pamplona Bridge shows how Cagayan River remain swollen Saturday with the tail end of Typhoon ‘Quiel.’ Cagayan and Apayao provinces were placed under a state of calamity as their respective provincial disaster risk reduction management councils advise residents to take extra precaution and to stay alert. Dave Leprozo

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte named Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez as the new chairman of the Metro Manila Regional Peace and Order Council, a body which plays a vital role in maintaining peace and order situation in every region of the country.

Beginning this month, Olivarez will be heading the Council along with his vice chairpersons National Capital Region Police Office director Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas and Metro Manila-Joint Task Force commander Brig. Gen. Alex Luna.

The council recently signed a memorandum of agreement granting P10 million in funding from the Parañaque city government for the programs of the Metro Manila RPOC.

The fund will be used to help the council perform its mandate to promote peace and order as well as to create venues for convergence among different stakeholders.

Sinas also presented to Olivarez the Peace and Development Roadmap and Sustainability Plan for next year which focuses on efforts to combat crime and disorder; resolve conflict, reduce the impact of insurgency, prevent and counter violent extremism; and build drugfree communities.

The Metro Manila RPOC is a recommendatory body to the National Peace and Order Council led

by President Duterte and members of the Cabinet which formulates policies and strategies to respond to peace and order problems and public safety.

DIVISIONS RIFE AS GERMANY MARKS 30 YEARS OF BERLIN WALL FALL

This photo taken on Nov. 11, 1989 shows young East Berliners celebrating atop the Berlin Wall. Thirty years later after its fall, the return of hard frontiers symbolize stark new political realities. AFP

GERMANY on Saturday marks 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall that ushered in the end of communism and national reunification, as the Western alliance that helped secure those achievements is riddled with divisions.

Two days before the date that brought epochal change, France’s President Emmanuel Macron dropped a bombshell, declaring that transatlantic partnership NATO was suffering from “brain death” and that Europe itself was “on the brink.”

Chancellor Angela Merkel responded with uncharacteristic sharpness, saying Thursday “I don’t think that such sweeping judgements are necessary,” and the ensuing storm over NATO laid bare the growing differences among

DUMAGUETE CITY—The Philippine National Police has filed murder charges against four suspects, including two policemen, in the killing of Dumaguete broadcast commentator and blocktimer Mercedario “Dindo” Generoso.

Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office Director Col. Julian Entoma said the case was filed Friday night against Teddy Reyes Salaw, 44, of Lower Batinguel, Dumaguete; Glenn Mariño Corsame, of legal age, of Barangay Banilad, Dumaguete; Roger Rubio, of legal age, of Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental; and Tomasino Aledro, of legal age, of Barangay Batinguel, Dumaguete City.

Salaw and Corsame, a retired police personnel, are in custody following their arrest several hours after Generoso was gunned down in Barangay Piapi here Thursday morning.

Rubio, the alleged triggerman who is a police corporal assigned to the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, remains at large.

Aledro was included in the murder charge, being the owner of the silver Mitsubishi Strada pickup truck allegedly driven by Salaw on the day of Generoso’s murder, Entoma said.

CCTV footage from the city hall showed Rubio disembarking from the pick-up truck, which was parked along Rizal Boulevard, and transferred to a waiting motorcycle, reportedly driven by Corsame.

The motorcycle riders then tailed Generoso to Barangay Piapi where the latter was shot dead.

The murder case was filed through inquest before Prosecutor Oscar Bokingkito at the Hall of Justice, Entoma said.

Generoso was the second radio broadcaster in Dumaguete to be killed, after Edmund Sestoso who was shot in broad daylight in May 2018. PNA

TENSIONS SOAR AS HONG KONG LAWMAKERS ARRESTED

OLIVAREZ NAMED NCR PEACE COUNCIL HEAD

By Joel E. Zurbano

CHARGES FILED VS. MURDER SUSPECTS

traditional allies.

The bad tempered prelude to the festivities stood in sharp contrast to celebrations five years ago, when former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and ex-Polish president and freedom icon Lech Walesa were present.

This time, leaders of former Cold War powers will be absent, as Donald Trump’s America First policy, Britain’s Brexit struggles and Russia’s resurgence put a strain on ties.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s visit ended Friday while Macron is only planning a flying visit on Sunday, leaving the actual anniversary on Nov. 9 without globally prominent figures.

Pompeo also left behind a stark

warning: “As we celebrate, we must also recognize that freedom is never guaranteed.

“Today, authoritarianism is once again rising,” he said, namechecking China and Russia.

‘Naive complacency’ Carrying a similar message, the EU’s incoming chief Ursula von der Leyen noted that the euphoric optimism over liberal democracy and freedom that characterized November 9, 1989 has dissipated.

“Today, we have to admit that our complacency was naive,”said von der Leyen.

Russia is “using violence to shift established borders in Europe, and is trying to fill every vacuum that the US has left behind.” AFP

HONG KONG police said Saturday they have arrested three pro-democracy lawmakers over a brawl in parliament, deepening the city’s crisis a day after the death of a student sent tensions soaring.

The international finance hub has been upended by five months of huge and increasingly violent pro-democracy protests but Beijing has refused to give in to most of the movement’s demands.

With the city bracing for a 24th consecutive weekend of rallies, police brought charges against three key pro-democracy lawmakers while four other lawmakers said they had been ordered to attend a police station later Saturday to be booked. They face up to a year in jail if convicted.

The charges relate to chaotic scenes that broke out within a legislative committee in May as prodemocracy lawmakers tried to stop a controversial bill being discussed that would allow extraditions to authoritarian mainland China.

At the time, city leader Carrie Lam was fast-tracking the bill through the legislature, a move that went on to ignite record-breaking street protests in which millions marched. AFP

Mourners light candles as they pay their respects at the car park where student Alex Chow, 22, fell during a recent protest on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong on Nov. 8. AFP

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Opinion

EDITORIAL

EVERYMAN

OTHER WALLS HAVE RISEN

O

N SATURDAY, the world marked the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. That wall stood for 10,316 days until it was dismantled on Nov. 9, 1989.

The wall’s fall appeared to mark the victory of capitalism and democracy in the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union with its satellite states and the United States with its allies after World War II. The wall came down partly because of a bureaucratic accident and, in the view of many observers of geopolitics, amid a wave of revolutions that left the Soviet communist bloc teetering on the brink of collapse and helped define a new world order.

That day in 1989, the East German government suddenly allowed its citizens to pass through to the Western side, with Washington addressing the momentous implications of Moscow’s glasnost policy.

But while the dismantling of the Berlin Wall —once described by West Germans as a “wall of shame” and seen as a milestone that would reshape the modern world—was epoch-making in world history, it appears that 30 years later, there is still much to hope for in the world.

In the United States, the chief executive remains obsessed with building a wall meant to keep out immigrants at all costs, even if it meant tearing them away from their young children.

Aside from physical boundaries, the world remains plagued by widespread cultures of greed, hate and intolerance that continue to cause deaths and sow discord among groups.

Because of the relentless pursuit of economic

IMPROVING OUR TRANSPORT SYSTEM

development, there is a wider gap than ever between the rich and comfortable, and the poor and perennially threatened majority who find themselves vulnerable to the effects of displacement and climate change.

Many turn a blind eye to atrocities committed against groups of people just because the perpetrators keep a tight grip on power and control the information—nay, propaganda— and go after those who are critical of them.

The benefits of technology have been perverted to favor several entities and to manipulate the way people think they see the world. As a result, there has also come to be a gap between the truth and the many versions of it, depending on who is talking.

How much longer will it take, we wonder, for these newer walls to be dismantled? Certainly we have to do something, because they will never come down on their own.

By Jessica D. Bermudez THE Philippines was the first country in Southeast Asia to introduce a metropolitan light rail system for transportation. Yet, its place in the proverbial race to commuter progress since then has never been so low.

A survey by GPS-based navigation app, Waze, in 2015 named Metro Manila, on an urban level, as having the worst traffic on Earth among 32 countries and 167 major city cities.

Since 2018, both the MRT and LRT lines have experienced an almost daily bombardment of issues resulting in hours and days of no service running, leaving an average ridership of 750,000 Filipinos scrambling to find other means of commuting. Maintenance and upkeep of current MRT and LRT cars are in such bad conditions that only seven to eight cars a day actually run on the tracks to service commuters—a far cry from the recommended 15 cars minimum based on ridership numbers alone. This has led to an unsurprising decrease of 26 percent in ridership and revenues for the transit companies in the past year.

The dismal state of transportation and commuting in the Philippines has urged the Duterte administration to develop the ambitious golden age of infrastructure with a record of P3.6 trillion to be spent on 5,000 projects across the nation—P69.4 billion of which will be given to the Department of Transportation. Aside from improving current operations and maintenance procedures, this budget is intended for the purchase of newer and better cars to run on the tracks, and for the addition of passenger information systems inside the trains.

Such efforts to solve the problem are commendable but it will not entirely address the root causes of our train woes. Trains have become a measure of social and economic progress in a country. The Philippines’ 2019 budget was 10.1 percent higher than its 2018 cash equivalent, and with an annual change of 6 percent from 2017, it seems that we are progressing by the numbers but not by any looks of it.

For the Philippine light rail transit to ever become efficient, we need to also invest in its facilities, accessibility, capacity and support. By support, I meant that we need to also boost performances of other road vehicles like jeepneys, buses, and tricycles.

Of course, too many private vehicles on the road cause more traffic, and if more people will be comfortable and trustworthy of our public transportation systems, there will be fewer of them to share whatever little space there is.

The root of it all, it seems to be, is just the complete and utter decentralization and separation of modes of transportation in the country.

Only in the Philippines can you find seven different ways to commute, and each mode is owned by another dozen privatized companies vying for competition of passengers in the road. This distribution helps shortterm needs of commuters but in the long run decreases the government funding transportation departments receive that create conditions—old equipment, slower or dismissed service, reduced station safety, fewer employees—that make public transit even more unpalatable.

Perhaps what the country needs to help boost our MRT/LRT efficiency, and lessen traffic in our urban roads, is to make a more unified system of transportation. One that serves the public, and in unison. Cleaner energy jeepneys, bus rapid transit with set loading and unloading zones and defined schedules and routes that connect to the major rails. Either can be achieved in a shorter amount of time and lower cost than focusing just on the MRT/LRT. Whatever steps are taken at this point, we can only really go forward in making public transportation better.

Bermudez is a finance analyst from Henkel Asia Pacific Service Center. She is currently taking her masters degree at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

REDTAGGING DIVIDES THE COUNTRY EAGLE EYES TONY LA VINA (Continued from Saturday) THE state of our environment is a big national concern. We have serious environmental problems to solve and we need all hands on deck to do this.

Environmental defenders are the best of our citizens. Organizations like the Center of Environmental Concerns (CEC) and Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment (PNE Kalikasan) should be praised and not threatened with raids as they have been for the last few weeks. They are confirmed to be under surveillance by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and could be attacked any time.

We need more CEC and PNE Kalikasan-like organizations if we are to effectively address our environmental crisis. Everyone in the environmental community should close ranks and support them as all of us have to speak truth to power on issues like Oceana Gold and the Kaliwa Dam. Another major national concern that requires a whole of nation approach is responding to the climate emergency and

natural disasters. As a vulnerable country, we cannot afford to be distracted to deal with these big challenges.

All our available military units should be in Mindanao now helping the earthquake victims; instead we see the police arresting a community journalist like Anne Krueger in Bacolod or serving notice on IBON, an esteemed globally recognized think tank, that they will be arresting an unnamed person in the latter’s office.

In relation to this, most inexplicable is the inclusion of Oxfam sa Pilipinas, a development and humanitarian organization that has worked in the Philippines for 31 years, among the organizations mentioned by General Basiao. This is laughable if not the fact that it endangers many good people and a lot of good work, including on disaster risk reduction.

I have worked with Oxfam in the Philippines and internationally for many years and I will emphatically say that they are not a front of any political party—underground or above ground.

Independence and a commitment to development outcomes that address poverty and inequality are the hallmarks of Oxfam and I have seen their staff uphold these values time and again. I stand by Oxfam unconditionally and echo their statement: “If our vision and mission in the

Philippines have led to Oxfam being labelled a ‘local communist terrorist group’ or a funder of ‘communist terrorist groups’ then we find this a most troubling situation. These allegations affect not only us, but also put the communities and partners we work with at risk. In a country where poverty remains, and poor communities are continually struck by disasters, we strongly believe that organizations like ours should be encouraged, rather than hindered, from undertaking our programs.”

So what is happening?

First, clearly the intelligence apparatus of the military and police is in very bad shape, frozen in an understanding of political dynamics of the 1980s.

Teaching already many of them as individuals, I will even offer to do a lecture and update those interested in the national security establishment, on the political and development spectrum of the Philippines.

Second, one can only speculate that worse things are coming. I believe that undeclared as it is outside Mindanao, martial law is already upon us and things could escalate further. We must now prepare for the worst. Among others, I call on all groups, regardless of ideological tendency, to close ranks. Forget all our quarrels. Much bigger things are at

stake. Remember that fascist do not even know how to differentiate between groups and individuals.

One practical thing we can all do is to preempt the planting of evidence (the usual modus operandi where arms and explosives are planted so unbailable crimes can be charged) in our office premises. We did that with the Kabataan Party-List the other day with a team from the Commission on Human Rights inspecting its headquarters and finding nothing illegal—only young and idealistic people were there.

As for me, let’s be very clear that since the 1980s, I have decided to be consistently non-violent and independent in my political affiliation. I do not like guns and even when I was in government and facing threats, I refused bodyguards; I also did not allow the drivers who worked with me to have guns.

Third, the whole-of-nation approach has been seriously compromised by these careless statements and actions; the police and military should be warned that when they did this in the 1970s and 1980s, their institutions suffered immensely and it took decades to rebuild their human rights reputations. I hope they stop before they slide even further.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor / Jimbo Gulle, Issue Editor

BLOOMBERG FILES PAPERS PAVING WAY FOR PRESIDENTIAL BID CONCORD—New York business tycoon Michael Bloomberg has paved the way for a shot at the US presidency, registering as a candidate in the Alabama Democratic primary race before Friday’s filing deadline.

Although the 77-year-old billionaire has not publicly announced his run, his inclusion among a crowded field kept his options open for mounting a concerted bid to topple a fellow New Yorker, President Donald Trump.

Analysts say a Bloomberg candidacy could do the most damage to the prospects of frontrunner Joe Biden, but the former vice president put on a brave face Friday and said he was not worried Bloomberg would draw away centrist voters.

Bloomberg’s name was posted among 17 candidates on the Alabama Democratic Party’s website only hours before registration closed.

Alabama is not one of the early primaries but it has the earliest deadline to register.

Biden, who will also turn 77 on November 20, has placed himself in the political center with South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, while Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren run to his left.

“Michael’s a solid guy,” Biden told reporters in Concord, New Hampshire, while registering to take part in the February primary in the northeastern state.

“I have no, no problem with him getting in the race,” Biden said. “And in terms of he’s running because of me, last polls I looked at I’m pretty far ahead.

“If I’m not mistaken I’m doing pretty well, both relative to Trump and relative to all the people running,” he said.

Jason Mollica of American University said the entry of Bloomberg in the race could be “an indication that he believes the Democrats do not have a strong candidate that can defeat President Trump.”

“Mr Biden’s campaign isn’t the strength it was at the start and if Mr Bloomberg gains the support of the centrists in the Democratic Party, that is a big sign for Mr Biden the party doesn’t feel he’s the right candidate, either,” Mollica said.

Kyle Kondik of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia said a Bloomberg run could conceivably draw support away from Biden but it remains to be seen how much backing he’ll receive in a crowded field.

“At first blush, yes, one might think Bloomberg would hurt Biden more than others,” Kondik said. “But we have to remember that sometimes voters don’t fit neatly into ideological categories. AFP

FACEBOOK SORRY AS BLACK WORKERS COMPLAIN OF BIAS SAN FRANCISCO—Facebook apologized on Friday after black employees anonymously shared feelings of workplace bias in an online post.

The post shared at Medium by a “FB Blind” profile laid out perceived slights by managers, white colleagues, and the human resources department.

“No one at Facebook, or anywhere, should have to put up with this behavior,” corporate communications vice president Bertie Thomson said in response to an AFP query.

“We are sorry. It goes against everything that we stand for as a company.

We’re listening and working hard to do better.”

Incidents described in the Medium post included being targeted for negative performance reviews or snide comments.

“On the inside, we are sad. Angry. Oppressed. Depressed,” the post read.

“And treated every day through the micro and macro aggressions as if we do not belong here.”

The anonymous post maintained that the atmosphere at Facebook has worsened in the past year when it came to non-white workers being recognized, empowered and treated equitably.

“The problem is not just with black employees of different genders,” the post read.

“We are remaining anonymous because Facebook creates a hostile culture where anyone that is non-white is made to feel fear for their job and their safety to report any bad behaviors.” AFP

CHILE PROTESTERS TORCH UNIVERSITY, LOOT OLD CHURCH

STAND FOR ALEX. Students of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology participate in a march towards HKUST president Wei Shyy’s lodge in Hong Kong on November 8, following the death earlier in the day of student Alex Chow, 22, who was taken unconscious to hospital early on November 4 following late-night clashes between police and protesters. Chow’s death triggered a fresh wave of outrage from the pro-democracy movement and fears of more violent unrest. AFP

2 DEAD, 100 HOMES LOST IN AUSTRALIA BUSHFIRES

S

YDNEY—At least two people have died and 100 homes have been destroyed as an unprecedented number of bushfires tore through eastern Australia Saturday.

New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian also said seven people were unaccounted for, as firefighters tried to contain dozens of out-of-control blazes that have raged in the state since Friday.

“I’m sorry to say that number can increase during the day,” she said of the death toll, adding that despite some respite Saturday, next week’s weather forecast “could mean we’re not through the worst of it.”

Emergency services said they had found the remains of one person in a car and another woman died despite medics struggling for several hours to save her.

“At this stage, it appears at least 100 homes have been destroyed in yesterday’s bush fires,” the fire service said in an update early Saturday.

More than 30 people have been injured, most of them firefighters.

Almost 100 blazes pockmarked the New South Wales and Queensland countryside -- although just five of them remained highly dangerous.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the large number of fires was “incredibly concerning.” He urged residents to

“stay safe” and “listen to emergency services”.

“I’m getting regular updates and we stand ready to offer any assistance needed,” he tweeted.

Firefighters had warned they were in “uncharted territory” as they deployed 1,200 firefighters and 70 aircraft across a roughly 1,000-kilometre (620-mile) stretch of the seaboard.

Bushfires are common in Australia and a vast corps of firefighters had already been tackling sporadic blazes for months in the lead-up to the southern hemisphere summer.

But this is a dramatic start to what scientists predict will be a tough fire season ahead -- with climate change and unfavourable weather cycles helping create a tinderbox of strong winds, low humidity and high temperatures.

While conditions eased markedly in some areas and the forecast was downgraded from “extreme” to “high” or “very high” Saturday, a total fire ban remained in place in many areas and further high winds were predicted.

Firefighters had described the conditions Friday as “difficult” and “dangerous”.

“Unfortunately, many people have called for help but due to the size and speed of the fires we couldn’t get to everyone, even by road or helicopter,” New South Wales firefighters said.

In some areas, residents were stuck and told to simply “seek shelter as it is too late to leave”.

Local radio stopped normal programming and provided instructions about how to try to survive fires if trapped at home or in a vehicle. AFP

SANTIAGO—Demonstrators in Chile set a university building ablaze and ransacked a church Friday at the close of an otherwise peaceful rally marking three weeks of unprecedented protests against social and economic inequality.

Protesters clashed with police who had set up barricades to protect private Pedro de Valdivia University, and shortly thereafter the wooden roof of its 100-yearold administration building began to burn, witnesses said.

Fire crews had trouble reaching the blaze because of all the demonstrators.

Nearby, hooded protesters looted the church of La Asuncion, which was built in 1876, dragging furniture outside and setting it alight.

Tens of thousands of people had filed earlier into Plaza Italia, which has become ground zero in this spasm of grassroots fury over low wages, high costs for education and health care and a socio-economic system they see as favoring the wealthy. The unrest has left 20 people dead.

In the third such huge march, they renamed the square “Dignity Plaza.”

As night fell, protesters blocked roads near an upscale shopping mall that is considered a symbol of modern, prosperous Chile and erected flaming barricades. They chanted and shouted slogans against conservative President Sebastian Pinera.

The mall has been closed for nearly two weeks because of the unrest.

As they passed by the presidential palace, protesters chanted slogans against Pinera and demanded that he step down.

They also insulted police guarding the building.

“I came to crush these myths that these are violent protests,” said Cristian, a 27-year-old student.

On Thursday Pinera announced measures to tighten public order in the wake of the antigovernment protests.

Unrest that began on October 18 with protests against a rise in rush hour metro fares and has descended into burning, looting and daily clashes between protesters and police in a broader outcry against the status quo in what is generally considered one of South America’s most stable countries. AFP

POMPEO SLAMS IRAN ‘INTIMIDATION’ OF IAEA INSPECTOR WASHINGTON—US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday slammed Tehran’s treatment of an inspector with the UN’s nuclear watchdog agency last week as “an outrageous and unwarranted act of intimidation.”

The top US diplomat said Iran “detained” the inspector, who the International Atomic Energy Agency has said had been briefly prevented from leaving Iran.

Iran said Thursday it had cancelled the inspector’s accreditation after she triggered an alarm last week at the entrance to the Natanz uranium enrichment plant.

The alarm during a check at the entrance to the plant in central Iran had raised concerns that she could be carrying a “suspect product” on

her, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization said in a statement posted online.

As a result, she was denied entry, it added, without specifying whether or not anything had been found in her possession.

Iran’s ambassador to the IAEA Kazem Gharib Abadi told reporters after a special agency meeting in Vienna that after setting off the alarms on October 28, the woman “sneaked out” to the bathroom while waiting for a more thorough inspection with a detector that can find a range of explosive materials.

After her return, the alarms did not go off again, but authorities found contamination in the bathroom and later on her empty handbag during a house search.

Iran said IAEA officials were present for all the searches.

The IAEA has not publicly commented on the incident with the inspector so far.

“The United States fully supports the IAEA’s monitoring and verification activities in Iran, and we are alarmed at Iran’s lack of adequate cooperation,” Pompeo said in a statement.

“IAEA inspectors must be allowed to conduct their critical work unimpeded. We call on Iran to immediately resolve all open issues with the IAEA and to afford Agency inspectors the privileges and immunities to which they are entitled.”

Iran has been progressively scaling back its commitments under a landmark 2015 deal aimed at reining in Tehran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. AFP

LULA’S LOVER JANJA TWEETS ‘WAIT FOR ME’ AFTER COURT RULING CURITIBA, Brazil—Eager to be reunited with her jailed lover, the girlfriend of Brazilian ex-president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva tweeted “I’m coming for you; wait for me,” after a Supreme Court ruling that resulted in his release Friday.

Rosangela da Silva, a 52-year-old sociologist from Sao Paulo nicknamed “Janja,” reportedly began dating Lula before he was incarcerated at the federal police headquarters in Curitiba in April 2018.

He was serving a nearly nine-year sentence for corruption and money laundering before walking free on Friday afternoon.

Rosangela da Silva was by Lula’s side as he exited the detention center. At one point, she affectionately rested her head on his shoulder as he addressed hundreds of adoring supporters.

Lula kissed her on stage—removing any doubt about their relationship.

Da Silva was a weekly visitor at the Curitiba facility, though Lula reportedly complained that the couple—friends since the 1990s—were not given conjugal rights.

Lula, whose wife of more than 40 years died in February 2017, has spoken several times in recent months of his love for “Janja” and his plan to marry her after he is released.

Using the Twitter handle @JanjaLula, da Silva has posted frequently about her famous boyfriend.

For his 74th birthday last month, she tweeted a photo of the leftist leader, adding: “Today, I just want you in my arms to give you endless affection! Congratulations, my love! I love you forever.”

Hundreds of Lula’s supporters gathered Friday outside the jail where he was being held. For most of the day da Silva was not seen among them, AFP reporters said. AFP

NO CHILL. Demonstrators perform during a protest against the government’s economic policies in Santiago on November 6. Chile’s president said Wednesday his government had “nothing to hide” concerning allegations that police killed, tortured and sexually assaulted civilians during deadly protests against him, as protesters called on demonstrators to expand their rallies to rich districts so far untouched by the wave of demonstrations, centering on a major shopping center. AFP

Images

HARD AT WORK. A worker for the Pasay City Community Environment and Natural Resources Office dismantles an illegal vending structure on Wednesday, Nov. 6 at Barangay 145 in Sto. Niño Street in line with government orders of clearing city streets from obstructions to pedestrians and motorists. Ey Acasio

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SHUTTERED. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte (right) and Metro Manila Development Authority General Manager Jojo Garcia install a sign enforcing the closure of the Baliwag Transit bus depot on North EDSA for violation of the Quezon City Revenue Code of 1993. Manny Palmero

S O T O PH F THE O EEK W DRUG CZARS.

Vice President Leni Robredo (right) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Aaron Aquino hold a press conference at the Quezon City Reception House on Friday, Nov. 8, after Robredo led the meeting of the Inter-agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs for the first time as co-chairman of the committee.

Photo courtesy of OVP

BREAKING IT. Japanese breakdancer Ami Yuasa, who got a wildcard entry to the Red Bull BC One world championships, dances during a photo session in Mumbai, India on Nov. 8. AFP

ANGRY KURDS. Kurdish demonstrators hurl rocks at a Turkish military vehicle on Nov. 8, during a joint Turkish-Russian patrol near the town of Al-Muabbadah in the northeastern part of Hassakah on the Syrian border with Turkey. AFP

SMOKE OF BATTLE. A masked demonstrator holds a stone during clashes with riot police following a protest against the government’s economic policies in the surroundings of La Moneda presidential palace in Santiago, Chile on Nov. 6. AFP

MAMMOTH TRAP. Handout photograph released on Nov. 6 by Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology shows mammoth bones in Tultepec, Mexico. The bones of at least 14 mammoths, who would have lived more than 14,000 years ago, were found in what is believed to be the first find of a mammoth trap set by humans. AFP

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Riera U. Mallari, Editor sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Sports

PH SKATEBOARDING TEAM EYES 8-GOLD SEAG SWEEP

HE Skateboarding and Roller Sports Association of the Philippines sent a shocker when it announced that it is eyeing a golden sweep in the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

But its president in Monty Mendigoria has an interesting explanation.

“Yes, we’re looking at sweeping all of our eight events in the SEA Games,” said Mendigoria, who is looking forward to emerge as most bemadalled federation in the prestigious biennial meet that the country will host from 30 November to 11 December.

“I am confident of my projection because when we decided on what events to play, I was told by (Philippine Olympic Committee president) Cong. Bambol (Tolentino) to put in those where we can surely win the gold medal. And I can say that we are unbeatable in all of the events that we have included.”

Considered as powerhouse in the region, the Filipino skateboarders have what it takes to emerge victorious in the men and women’s categories of street, game of skate and downhill events.

Margielyn Didal, the reigning champion in the women’s street event of the Asian Games, will banner the country together with Christiana Means, Jericho “Kiko” Francisco and other talented Filipino-foreign athletes from Europe

Margielyn Didal, the reigning champion in the women’s street event of the Asian Games, will banner the country together with Christiana Means, Jericho “Kiko” Francisco and other talented Filipino-foreign athletes from Europe and the United States.

and the United States.

Although Mendigoria refused to reveal the names of the rest of the team to avoid being scouted by countries like Thailand and Malaysia, he assured that they will definitely make the country proud.

“We are very optimistic,” he

said, adding that his players are al world-class, thanks to the all-out support given by the Philippine Sports Commission.

“The PSC and chairman William Ramirez are behind us 150 percent.

Although there are some delays, they still make sure to provide everything

we need as far as our training and preparations for the Southeast Asian Games are concerned.”

“That’s why we are working hard.

We want to repay the trust of the PSC and our private sponsors by coming up with a victorious performance in the upcoming SEA Games.”

PBA, AUSTRALIA LAUD WORKSHOP PARTICIPANTS PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial (third from right) joined Australian ambassador Steven Robinson and his wife Rhonda Robinson (center) in honoring the participants in the Women’s in News and Sports Initiative SEA Games Workshop held recently at the Australian Ambassador’s residence in Makati.

Also in photo are (from left to right) – Rep. Faustino A. Dy V, Alyssa Sheena P. Tan, Irene Gay F. Saulog, Patricia Hizon and Anton Ocampo, Chief of Staff of Rep. Strike Revilla In his speech, Marcial lauded the Women in News and Sports Initiative, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs, ABC International Development and the Australian Embassy to the Philippines led by his Excellency Steven Robinson, for including our beloved Philippines in the extension of the WINS program.

He added: While there may be truth that sports media is male dominated, women are slowly but surely being regarded as an integral part, the heart of coverages here and out—their voices, the sound of hope and integrity.

ALTHEA Martirez and Drixcyn Guillano set out for a twinkill against a slew of rivals ready to foil their bids in the top two divisions of the PPSPEPP Gov. E. Contreras national age group tennis tournament which got under way at the Villareal Stadium Tennis Courts in Roxas City Friday.

Over 200 entries are slugging it out for top honors and ranking points in the Group I tournament serving as part of the talent-search of the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala circuit with Martirez and Guillano bracing for a tough challenge in the 16- and 18-and-under categories.

The top seeded Martirez, one of the rising stars from Central Philippine U in Iloilo who dominated the recent Gov. Umali Cup in Oriental Mindoro, will be facing the likes of No. 2 Avril Suace, third seed Crystal Ojaldon and Maria Aguirre in pursuit of the two titles in the event sponsored by Gov. Esteban Contreras and PPS-PEPP headed by Palawan Pawnshop president/CEO Bobby Castro.

Guillano, meanwhile, also hopes to bank on crowd support as the local ace goes up against the likes of Nickel Nowlakha, Angelo Mejia, JJ Gazo and Kendrick Bona in the boys’ side of the event sanctioned by the Unified Tennis Philippines made up of PPS-PEPP, Cebuana Lhuillier, Wilson, Toby’s, Dunlop, Slazenger and B-Meg. Also on tap is the Legends 40s, 50s and 60s and men’s doubles competitions, according to PPS-PEPP Sports Program Development director Bobby Mangunay. For details, call 0915-4046464.

Aguirre, meanwhile, leads the chase in the girls’ 14-U play along with Aleeva Suace, Dolores Hofilena and Sophia Gazo with Benedict Santiago, Elemar Sealza, Derrick Guillano and Bona tipped to dispute the boys’ crown.

Suace and Hofilena also brace for a showdown in the girls’ 12-U championship with Queenly Villa and Angelie Mondragon out to spoil their bid while Derrick Guillano and Bona loom as the players to beat in the full-packed boys’ 12-U category. The 10-unisex group also drew a 32-player draw, headed by Francis de Juan, Villa, Brice Baisa and Francisco de Juan III.

HERNANDEZ FUMBLES BUT CLINGS TO LEAD

NORTH SEEKS TO LEVEL SERIES VS SOUTH IN THE DUEL

Former PGT Asia leg winner Justin Quiban (left) and his teammates Joenard Rates, with young but talented Ira Alido, hope to help deliver the good for Team North.

MARTIREZ, GUILLANO TARGET PPS NET TITLES

RANGED against a team boasting of some of the country’s top guns, Team North brims with confidence heading to its sixth faceoff with its South counterpart next week, wary but upbeat of its chances for a repeat in The Duel – North vs South unfolding Nov. 13 at Sta. Elena Golf Club.

The Northerners rode on a big start in team play in the first two days of last year’s edition of the country’s version of the Ryder Cup then held sway in the singles to pound out a three-point win, pulling the team on track for a crack at levelling up their series at three wins apiece.

“I’m confident about our chances this year,” said North coach Cookie La’O, who hopes to draw the best again from his fired-up crew which upstaged its fancied rivals at John Hay last year, led by veterans Jobim Carlos, Justin Quiban, James Ryan Lam, Michael Bibat, Mars Pucay, Joenard Rates and Gerald Rosales, rising stars Ira Alido and Keanu Jahns along wit Jun Bernis, Fidel Concepcion and Eric Gallardo.

“We have a great mix of veterans and a new generation. We might have an advantage with our length off the tee at Sta. Elena but then again it will be pretty tight as South is loaded with talents as always,” said La’O. “But for sure, it’ll be an exciting week,” he added.

It should be.

Team South, for one, is itching to reassert its mastery over the North side, which it dominated in the third and fourth editions of the event put up by ICTSI and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. in 2012 as a side event to the then fledgling local circuit and now a biennial affair among the top players in the Philippine Golf Order of Merit ranking after each season.

Like La’O, South coach Charles Hong believes his side has the tools to get back at North and reclaim the crown with Clyde Mondilla, Tony Lascuña and Jhonnel Ababa to anchor their title drive along with Jerson Balasabas, Jay Bayron, Elmer Salvador, Albin Engino, Pueblo de Oro leg champion Reymon Jaraula, Zanieboy Gialon, Arnold Villacencio, Nilo Salahog and Rene Menor.

The fielding of pairings will be crucial for both coaches with each side wanting to cash in on whatever edge one pairing would have against the other, thus guaranteeing an unpredictable clash of power and wits in the three-day event held for the first time at the posh Sta. Elena layout.

Play will be the four-ball (better ball) and foursomes (alternate shot) in the first two days with the deciding singles set in the final day on Nov. 15, 12 matches tipped to go all the way down to the last pairing.

SILANG, Cavite—Jet Hernandez squandered a big lead just after nine holes but recovered a bit at the finish to regain the lead despite a 79 as Korean Kim Tae Soo blew a solid eagle-spiked start with a closing 40 for a 72 in the second round of the Riviera MVPSF Amateur Championship at Riviera’s Langer course here yesterday.

Kim sizzled with a birdie-eagle feat after six holes, his opening three-under 32 proving enough to overhaul an eight-shot deficit after 18 holes as Hernandez, who set the pace with an opening 73, groped and limped with a frontside 41 in the second round. But the Korean lost his touch at the tougher backside of the par-71, demanding layout, double-bogeying the first two holes and closing out with a birdie-bogey game in the last seven holes to end up with a one-over card.

Hernandez, meanwhile, dropped two more strokes at the back and wound up with a birdie-less eightover card, barely staying on top at 152 with Kim just behind at 153, the same output up in by Josh Jorge, who carded a 75, while Sean Ramos turned in a 74 to get into the mix at 154, two off the pace heading to the final 18 holes of the annual event conducted and organized by National Golf Association of the Philippines.

Dan Cruz hobbled with a 77 but closed to within four at 156 while Rho Hyun Ho, also from Korea, also shot a 74 for joint sixth at 157 with Paolo Barro, who fumbled with a 77, and Korean Jung Jaehyun pooled a 159 after a 79 and Lee Sang Min and Miguel Ilas assembled identical 161s after 78 and 81, respectively.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Business

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

MOBILE GADGETS EMPOWER FILIPINO FRONTLINE WORKERS A

N AMERICAN company is equipping Filipino frontliners, particularly those involved in business field operations, with mobile gadgetry and wearable computers to take advantage of electronic commerce growth that disrupts the traditional brickand-mortar industries.

The rise of e-commerce and on-demand solutions is changing the face of Philippine industries, with retail chains and business establishments now relying on mobile gadgets and solutions in field operations to deliver goods to customers, collect payments and issue receipts.

Zebra Technologies, an American company that started as a printer manufacturer, now equips enterprise clients with rugged tablets, mobile printers, RFID readers and mobile connectivity in 100 countries including the Philippines.

Tracy Yeo, country lead of Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. in the Philippines, says she is particularly bullish about the growth of retail and e-commerce in the country.

“Over the past three years, we have enjoyed double-digit growth in the Philippines.

Definitely, it is one of the fastestgrowing countries. We are still looking at double-digit growth year-on-year,”Yeo, a Singaporean national, says in an interview in Makati City.

This is because of the growing digital-savvy population in the Philippines who are leading the adoption of e-commerce in the country. Data show that in 2018, 70 percent of Filipino internet users made at least one online purchase.

“The Philippine e-commerce is growing very fast, with the middle-income rising with more spending power. We see retail and e-commerce continuing to grow in the next couple of years, followed by transport and logistics,” Yeo says.

Consumers’ growing preference for online shopping is spurred by the convenience that e-commerce provides, which in turn is fast-tracking the rise of the “on-demand” economy, revolutionizing commercial behavior not just in Asia Pacific but also in the rest of the world, according to Zebra.

Zebra empowers the frontline

Doris Magasaysay Ho (center), president and CEO of the Magsaysay Group is named the first “Asia CEO - InLife Shero of the Year” during the 10th Asia CEO Awards. With her are Insular Life president and CEO Mona Lisa De la Cruz (right) and executive vice president Noemi Azura.

MAGSAYSAY-HO RECOGNIZED ‘INLIFE SHERO OF THE YEAR’

Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. country lead for the Philippines Tracy Yeo (left) and vertical solutions marketing manager Tan Aik Jin showcase Zebra’s rugged mobile devices.

of businesses in retail/e-commerce, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, healthcare and other industries to achieve a performance edge.

“Zebra Technologies is a company that sells enterprise rugged devices.

We provide services and solution software. We connect people and give visibility to companies. We help them improve productivity in their operations,” Yeo says.

Founded in 1969 as a printer company, Zebra provided 50 years of technology expertise, leadership and innovation. “We are the global leader in intelligent enterprise solutions.

We give businesses a performance edge. In 2018, we hit a record high of $4.2 billion in terms of revenues.

That is the highest in Zebra years,” Yeo says.

With about 7, 400 employees in more than 100 offices across 45 countries, Zebra works with the world’s top companies and 10,000 channel partners in more than 100 countries.

Zebra is particularly optimistic about its operations in the Asia Pacific, its highest-performing region.

“We consistently have a year-on-year growth of close to 10 percent. In the first quarter, we had 12-percent growth in terms of sales,” Yeo says.

Among the products and solutions of Zebra are mobile computing

devices, printing supplies and equipment, data capture devices, RFID readers and antennas, locationsolution products and real-time locating systems.

These products are particularly helpful in field operations, transportation and logistics which apar t from digital technology make e-commerce possible. “With e-commerce booming, you need people to deliver the parcel,” she says.

Tan Aik Jin, vertical solutions mar keting manager of Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific, says results of the Future of Field Operations Vision Study conducted by the company last year shows that 60 percent of Asia Pacific organizations are now prioritizing mobile technology investment.

The study indicates that investments will be made in disruptive technologies and enterprise mobile devices to enhance frontline worker productivity and customer satisfaction in field operations, including fleet management, field services, proof of delivery and direct store delivery work flows.

“Driven by the acceleration of e-commerce along with customers’ heightened expec tations and increased focus within companies on differentiating service levels, the field operations industry is rapidly changing the way it looks at mobile

technology investments,” said Jin. “Our study shows how growing challenges related to the on-demand economy drive organizations to adopt transformative, disruptive technologies such as augmented reality and intelligent labels to provide visibility and integrate business intelligence for a performance edge,” he says.

Yeo says the study highlights the top three trends driving changes in field operations across the Asia Pacific. These are the growing expectations of performance and convenience from end customers, replacement of paper in the field by mobile technology and disruptions to field operations caused by emerging technologies and faster networks”.

“In Asia-Pacific, more than half of the organizations have a mobilefirst mindset when it comes to adopting enterprise-wide mobile and emerging technologies. These forward-thinking organizations are setting their field operations apart with three key strategies: scaling of mobile technology and supporting technologies enterprise -wide, evaluating total cost of ownership of mobile technology as a standard practice and utilizing emerging field operations technologies more extensively to achieve competitive advantage,” she says.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

THE first Asia CEO-InLife Shero of the Year Award went to Doris Magsaysay Ho, president and chief executive of the Magsaysay Group—one of the country’s largest conglomerates.

She received the award during formal ceremonies at the 10th Asia CEO Awards at the Marriot Hotel Manila.

The InLife Shero of the Year is a new category in the Asia CEO Awards and is given to a Filipino woman leader who has achieved recognizable success, overseeing organizations in the Philippines that have advanced the nation’s economic and social standing in the eyes of the world.

Magsaysay Ho was conferred the Global Filipino Executive of the Year Award at the Asia CEO Awards 2012. She has also been recognized for her outstanding contributions in the global shipping industry multiple times. She was also the recipient of an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Social Responsibility in 2004.

Magsaysay Ho leads a conglomerate that has businesses in various industries such as manpower deployment and human resources, hospitality and tourism, shipping and logistics, healthcare, education and training, oil and gas and specialized engineering trade.

“It is such as honor to receive this reward especially from a big company such as Insular Life [which is] run by women who I admire so much,” said Magsaysay Ho after she received the award.

“I believe that more than success, we should look for purpose and strive for meaning in whatever we do. This is what I have been trying to do; I dedicate this recognition to the men and women who make up our organization,” she said.

Magsaysay Ho was chosen from a finalist group composed of eight highly successful Filipino women executives called the Asia CEO Circle of Excellence.

They are Alegria Sibal-Limjoco, president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Cherrie De Erit Atilano, CEO of AGREA Agricultural System International; Joan Penaflorida, president and CEO of Yondu; Mailyn Borillo, president of OSM Maritime Services; Marcelina Itchon, president and CEO of Aspen Philippines; Mona Magno-Veluz, national president of Autism Society of the Philippines; and Myrna Yao, president and CEO of Richprime Global.

JEFF ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH SUPER SERVICES APP FOLLOWING the launch of its laundry franchise sales six months ago, Spanish start-up Jeff announced an expansion plan across Asia using an app which customers can download to avail of laundry and dry-cleaning services without leaving their home.

The Philippines has become one of Mr Jeff’s most important regional markets concomitant to its decision to focus on international expansion in Asia. Within weeks since its introduction to the country, Mr Jeff sold 60 franchises in strategic locations with four Mr Jeff laundry hubs already operational in Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Fairview and Congressional Ave. in Quezon City. Eight more are expected to open in Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Pasig, Manila, Taguig and Sta. Rosa

by December this year.

Mr Jeff’s convenient, high-quality services are a perfect fit for busy people. By using the app or website, customers can choose the Jeff head of fitness Diego Moya, Jeff co-founder and CEO Eloi Gomez exact location, time and day of pick up; a driver visits the customer’s and Jeff head of beauty Kiko Medina house, picks up the items and delivers them cleaned, folded or ironed in just 48 hours.

From having an innovative franchise business model as a laundry change of the corporate brand name to Jeff, taking the first step to and dry cleaning home delivery service, Mr Jeff announced the becoming a super services app.

The reason for this new name comes from a transition in business model, which incorporates new verticals to become a multi-service platform or “super app”, offering users everything they need on a daily basis with just a click. This will be available through the platform which will bring the different care and wellness services together under the banner “The Good, Good Life” and will place the day-today needs of customers at their disposal.

Jeff was founded in 2015 in Valencia, Spain by Eloi Gómez, Adrián Lorenzo and Rubén Muñoz, three Spanish entrepreneurs under 30.

Gómez, the CEO of Jeff said: “Our objective from day one has been to add value to the customer, and we believe that we can do it, not just by washing and ironing their clothes, but also by offering them allied services they may need.”

The other vertical being developed is dedicated to hairdressing and beauty, which was announced in June under the name “Beauty Jeff” which opened its first salon in Argentina on Oct. 30. In addition, Jeff announced its fitness services, Fit Jeff. Both verticals will be launched in November in the Philippines which will be a great opportunity for investors in the country.

Business

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 business@manilastandard.net

MUNOZ TO HOST INVENTORS WEEK

PANDA EXPRESS SET TO OPEN AT MEGAMALL

Inventrepreneur Popoy Pagayon THE Filipino Inventors Society Producers Cooperative led by its president Francisco ‘Popoy’ Pagayon conducted a general assembly and meeting/briefing of FISPC members and exhibitors at the Aristocrat in Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City on Nov. 5 in preparation for the holding of the 26th National Inventors Week.

It will be held at the Central Luzon State University in the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija on Nov. 18 to 21, 2019.

Pagayon said unique inventions and products would be showcased alongside demonstrations of the various equipment and machinery that were crafted by the brilliant Filipino inventors.

ABOITIZ HELPS OVER 35,000 QUAKE VICTIMS

Andrew and Peggy Cherng Hedcor and TSI turn over blankets and tarpaulin/trapal to 958 families in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. THE Aboitiz Group mobilized its Manila and Mindanao-based business units to provide assistance to more than 35,000 individuals affected by the 6.5 magnitude earthquake that hit Mindanao on Oct. 31.

These were distributed in the affected areas of Magsaysay and Binugao Toril in Davao Del Sur and Magpet, Makilala, Tulunan and Kidapawan City in North Cotabato.

Ab o i t i z Powe r, Pi l m i co a n d Ab o i t i z Foundation donated 28,958 packs of relief goods consisting of food packs, hygiene kits, tents and sleeping kits.

“We in the Aboitiz Group work hard to live our core value of responsibility. This inspires us to extend help to our host communities and others in need. We hope that our assistance, in the form of relief packs, will help our brothers and sisters in Mindanao in this time of need,” said Aboitiz Foundation first vice president and chief operating officer Maribeth Marasigan.

The Aboitiz Group’s Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc., one of the first responders to the disaster, immediately distributed water to 34 barangays in Kidapawan City and municipality of Makilala, areas greatly hit by the earthquake. This benefited more than 9,000 displaced families.

MANULIFE LAUNCHES ‘MY VISION PLAN’

MANULIFE Philippines has launched My Vision Plan, a groundbreaking insurance and investment plan that offers the most valuable insurance benefits rolled into a single offering.

Manulife MVP combines the potential growth of money through expertly managed funds with four guaranteed benefits.

These include guaranteed cash benefits on top of investments, regardless of market movements; guaranteed lifetime protection once the policy is fully paid; a fixed paying period of five, 10 or 15 years depending on one’s needs and goals; and guaranteed easy application for up to P1 million coverage.

“Manulife MVP was designed to be the most valuable player among financial solutions.

By combining insurance protection and investment benefits in a plan that brings these four guaranteed benefits together, Manulife MVP can help you achieve the financial goals you have set for yourself and your loved ones,” said Melissa Henson, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Manulife Philippines.

“Whether you’re a young professional starting to plan for your future, a parent preparing for your children’s education, or a career executive planning fun adventures postretirement, Manulife MVP can help you achieve your best life,” Henson said.

RICOH TAPS MONSTERLAB

Eric Sulit of Ricoh Philippines (left) and Allan Tan of Monsterlab Philippines TECHNOLOGY and imaging leader Ricoh Philippines Inc. embraces robotic process automation to speed up its work processes and reduce human errors.

Through its strategic partnership with Monstarlab Philippines, Ricoh will utilize the tech’s firm product called Rax Editor, a robotic process automation tool that allows users to automate manual processes flawlessly across different applications and environments through assisted automation (interaction between people and its virtual agents is required) or unassisted automation (no human control is needed).

RAX Editor is specifically targeting to improve Ricoh’s billing cycle which includes meter billing, finance lease billing, product and service billing, sales order billing and delivery receipt printing. Automating the billing cycle means less overtime for employees and opportunity to do more valuable work rather than tedious repetitive work.

“Some parts of our operation have to put in a lot of overtime in order to get things done. This is especially true in our accounting department where some processes are not fully automated by our ERP. With RPA, we can automate manual and repetitive processes. We expect this to allow our employees to spend more time doing analytical work or communicating with our client,”said Ricoh Philippines president and CEO Eric Sulit.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

P

ANDA Express is set to open its first branch at SM Megamall in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, providing Filipinos a taste of authentic American Chinese cuisine.

Panda Express, an American Chinese original, is the largest Asian dining concept in the US. Founded and operated since 1983, the familyowned chain is best known for a wide variety of thoughtfully crafted dish with quality ingredients inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles.

After years of trying to bring Panda Express to the Philippines, Panda Express co-founder and coCEO Andrew Cherng felt he found the right partner in Jollibee Foods Corp. founder and chairman Tony Tan Caktiong.

JFC announced last year that it signed a 50/50 joint venture with Panda Restaurant Group to form JBPX Foods Inc. and bring the iconic US restaurant brand to the Philippines.

Cherng said both companies share the same values in dedication to quality and people-first culture.

“We’re excited to open the first Panda Express

in the Philippines. Based on the consumer enthusiasm for the upcoming opening, we’re encouraged that the local market will also love this food concept—a boost to JFC’s roster of restaurant chain,” Tan Caktiong saidn in a statement.

Consumer interest in Panda Express started in 2016 when food sites consistently listed it as one of US-based brands that Filipinos could not wait to open in Manila.

Speculations on the location of the first branch stirred a new wave of online interest on the brand.

The opening of Panda Express SM Megamall is expected to drive the continuous growth of JFC— one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing Asian restaurant companies.

Filipinos can now get a taste of Panda Express’ Original Orange Chicken, the bestseller on the menu, as well as other American Chinese classics like Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli Beef and Shanghai Steak.

Cherng cofounded Panda Express with wife Peggy, and they are now co-CEOs who make sure the company remains committed to its valuesbased culture, focusing on growing their people, serving quality ingredients to guests and giving back to the community. They opened the first branch in Glendale, California.

Today, Panda Express has successfully popularized American Chinese cuisine through authentic Chinese recipes adapted to the global palate.

Meanwhile, JFC is one of the largest and fastest growing Asian restaurant companies in the world.

It is one of the best, if not the most loved Filipino food brand.

It operates in 21 countries, with over 4,500 stores globally with branches in the Philippines, the United States, Canada, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the United Kingdom, Italy, Vietnam, Brunei, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Indonesia, Costa Rica, Egypt, El Salvador, Panama and Malaysia.

It has eight wholly-owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan and Smashburger), two franchised brands (Burger King in the Philippines and Dunkin’ Donuts in certain territories in China), a 60-percent ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highland Coffee and PHO24 brands.

JFC also has investments in Titan Dining LP, the ultimate holding entity of Tim Ho Wan Pte. Ltd. (the master franchisee of Tim Ho Wan in the Asia Pacific region excluding Hong Kong) and a business venture with award-winning chef Rick Bayless to build a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

JFC recently signed an agreement to acquire 100 percent of the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf specialty coffee and tea brand, with over 1,100 outlets in 27 countries.

MICRO-LENDING FIRM GAINS GROUND BY FRANCHISING WHEN LT&G Credit Line, a microlending company based in Bicol, saw that the company was becoming instrumental to more small-scale businesses for sustenance and growth, chief executive Marco Antonio Soliman immediately thought that they needed to expand across the nation.

With the help of Francorp, the worldwide leader in franchise development and consulting, LT&G Credit Line is currently making waves in the franchise industry because of its unique business concept—a credit line company offering just the right interest rate.

Established in 2013, the lending company has been the go-to of sari-sari stores, eateries (locally called carenderias) and similar small businesses when funding or capital falls short and getting a loan from commercial banks is a hassle. Six year later, it became so successful that many potential investors are applying for its franchise.

Profit from daily operations is what is keeping micro, small and medium enterprises or MSMEs, running.

Soliman knows this not only because he finished a business management course in college. He ran a motorcycle spare parts shop in his hometown for two years which, he believes serves as his “master’s degree”.

WORKING CAPITAL Using the money he earned from working for a telecommunications company and from a loan from his mother, he opened the shop which only ran for two years. “I couldn’t compete with big players in our area, so I had to close the shop eventually,” Soliman says.

Soliman then went to study law and sought career opportunity in two insurance companies. It was there that he was able to save up more money and build business connections at

LT&G Credit Line Inc. CEO Marco Antonio Soliman

the same time. He was introduced to the sport of practical shooting which encouraged him to put up a gun store which he named Legazpi Trends and Gears or LT&G. “The insurance company to which I am still connected with, offered me a loan which I used to put up my own building,” Soliman says.

“I grabbed the opportunity and this is where I transferred the gun store along with a small café, a security agency and a trucking business [established with several business partners] and the first LT&G micro-lending firm,” he says.

Seeing that his micro-lending business is doing good, Soliman consulted friends who are into the banking industry about another business to operate. A friend who is connected with Francorp brought up the idea of franchising for his gun store or café. Instead, he thought of applying the franchise suggestion to the micro-lending company which is a unique business concept that can also be franchised.

“At the back of my mind, I was thinking who would be interested

to franchise when a lot of big banks and informal lenders have already saturated the market. My friends are discouraging me to pursue my idea of having it franchised, but I believe, given the right opportunity for the people to understand the benefits from the business and the science about it, many existing and would-be business owners will be interested,” Soliman says.

Aside from the micro-lending firm earning the right amount of profit and its franchise model being able to provide jobs, Soliman says he is glad that the business is growing alongside its MSME clients. “We actually consider them partners, we want them to succeed in their business. Our interest rate is very friendly. We know that if we charge more, they will not earn from their business” he says.

Majority of LT&G micro-lending clients are sari-sari stores and eateries followed by similar small businesses like repair shops, vulcanizing shops, second-hand stores (ukay-ukay), water stations, among others.

“Our advantage is that we are

offering a lower interest rate, and we are a legal business compared to informal lenders” Soliman says. “With our business system, many of our borrowers are renewing their credit line several times over. Plus we see them grow their respective businesses which is the most rewarding part of our business.”

His case in point is a pili nut vendor in Legazpi City who sold his products in a heat-sealed plastic pouched and displayed under a makeshift stand by the roadside. After several loan renewals from LT&G, the seller now abides with DTI’s standards—the products are now neatly labeled and displayed inside a glass cabinet. Other businesses were mini-groceries now that were once sari-sari stores.

EVOLVING FRANCHISE Soliman says the company is continuously evolving to be proactive on the risks involving such kind of business model. Each branch gets evaluated regularly to check on the risk-management measures. “We always try to find ways to minimize the risk vis a vis the acceptable budget,” he says.

“Lending can be the best or the worse business,” he says. “For us, we were able to study the science behind it. Qualifying the right borrowers is also a key factor.”

With LT&G’s partnership with Francorp, the company is expecting for more franchise outlets opening across the country. From five branches, the company will be ending this year with 50 branches, of which 45 branches are all franchise-owned.

Francorp Philippines is a part of the worldwide network of Francorp International, a globally-leading franchise development and consulting firm that has helped develop over 3,000 franchise businesses and assisted more than 10,000 companies worldwide in their franchise expansion.

Tech & Gadgets

LINKEDIN: PH SMBs DRIVE DEMAND FOR YOUNG, TECH-SAVVY TALENT S

MALL and medium businesses in the Philippines are adopting technologies and hiring professionals with technology-related skills, according to data from LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network. In the Philippines, there are more than 7 million members on the network.

LinkedIn has found that technology-related skills have the highest year-on-year growth among SMBs, indicating ongoing initiatives to improve their products, services, and operations. The fastest growing skills of SMBs in the Philippines are: Graphic design; Social media; Spreadsheet; User experience design; Email management; Virtual Assistant; React Native; Back-End Web Development; Data Visualization; Transcription SMBs are also recruiting young talent to help them achieve their goals.

Generation Y, also known as millennials, make up 77 percent of SMB employees, while Generation Z, who have recently graduated from college and are stepping into their first jobs, account for 4 percent. Generation X and Baby Boomers comprise 16 percent and 3 percent, respectively, of SMB employees.

HIRING CHALLENGES OF SMEs While SMB owners’ priority is to run their day-to-day operations, spending time to understand skills gaps and develop a talent strategy is critical to the business. SMBs are looking to hire new employees with specific skills and qualities that would help create or maintain an efficient, professional and productive workplace. However, they often struggle with lean teams and budgets. This makes it challenging to recruit young and digitally-savvy professionals who have access to diverse information and career options. As SMBs look to attract the right talents, they can benefit from a more thoughtful approach to hiring.

“While today’s young professionals have a variety of options when looking for a job, we have found that they are drawn to opportunities that align with their purpose and enable them to develop themselves. Small and me-

dium business owners interested in attracting them to be part of their teams can benefit from being open about their own aspirations, cultivating authentic connections, and sharing growth opportunities available to employees,” said Olivier Legrand, Managing Director, AsiaPacific, LinkedIn. SMBs’ GUIDE TO HIRING For SMBs who are looking to build relationships with talent needed for their growth, LinkedIn shares the following tips: 1. Consider both the hard and soft skills needed for your business.

While the fastest rising skills reflect the efforts of SMBs to take advantage of platforms available today, new innovations may emerge in the near future. This signals to SMBs to also look at soft skills like creativity and critical thinking in the hiring process. These enable talent to respond to potential disruption or seize emerging possibilities for their business. By clearly communicating these when they post on LinkedIn Jobs, SMB employers enable the platform to match them to talent whose professional preferences align with their needs.

2. Showcase and celebrate your company’s culture and purpose.

Indicating interest in professional content, SMB employees in the Philippines follow 34 percent more company LinkedIn Pages compared to those working in large enterprises. SMB employers can take advantage of this by publishing job openings, posts, photos, videos, and articles about what it is like to work in their company. They can also explore LinkedIn’s new Open for Business feature that enables business owners to showcase their services on their page, making it easier for future employees or customers to find them.

3. Offer learning and development opportunities.

SMB employees in the Philippines are interested in learning and developing themselves. They are taking online classes on LinkedIn Learning, with courses tagged “Personal Development” topping their interest. SMB employers are encouraged to incorporate learning and development programs for their teammates. These can take

the form of quick online courses that can be taken individually or as a group.

“Finding the right talent is one of the most important decisions SMBs can make in their journeys. While being more deliberate about hiring can take more time and effort, it can save them a lot of issues down the line, and open up more opportunities for business growth,” said Legrand.

ALPHA 6100: IDEAL CAMERA FOR ASPIRING LENSMEN LOOKING for a camera that highlights and elevates both photo and video performance?

With its improved color reproduction, 24MP- APS-C CMOS Sensor, and 4K Ultra HD video, the Alpha 6100 might just be the right camera for you.

Sony brings the ideal camera for all aspiring photographers and those who want to level-up on their social media gaming from their smartphones. This new addition to α™ (Alpha™) APS-C series of mirrorless cameras will leave you in awe with its ability to turn your photos into an instant pro. The Alpha 6100 (model ILCE6100) includes the following features that will put your photography game to the next level: Improved color reproduction; Algorithms inherited from full-frame models

in Super 35mm format with easy smartphone transfers via the Imaging Edge™ Mobile application.

Interval shootingi for stunning time-lapse videos.

180-degree tiltable, 3.0-type 921k-dot (approx.) LCD touch screen.

Integrated Microphone input for clear and crisp audio on video recordings.

A6100 is available in 3 color variations perfect for your style – white, silver, and black Alpha 6100 with SEL70350G For only P49,999, the A6100 Alpha 6100 in Silver with 16-50mm kit lens will be available in all Sony centres and authorized Sony deliver natural color reproduction, particu- dealers starting Nov. 20, 2019. larly in skin tones.

For full product details, please visit: Hi-resolution internal 4K movie recording Alpha 6100: https://www.sony-asia.com/elecwith full-pixel readout without pixel binning tronics/interchangeable-lens-cameras/ilce-6100

HONOR MOBILE UNBOXES EARLY CHRISTMAS TREATS

At least 11.11% discount on your favorite HONOR smartphones and wearables in Shopee and Lazada

WITH the Christmas holidays just around the corner, HONOR Mobile is sharing its long list of treats available on Shopee and Lazada this Nov. 11.

It’s a truly merry day with at least 11.11% discounts on gushworthy HONOR gadgets and accessories. What’s more, every purchase comes with free shipping. You can wait for your very own HONOR treat right at your doorstep or collect boxes of gifts you can store up in time for the season.

Take your pick at Lazada’s one day only sale rates (http:// bit.ly/32UEQbM) or wait for the right moment for that exciting flash sale from Shopee (http:// bit.ly/30RogI0)!

The anticipation only builds up as the HONOR Sports Band 5 debuts at Shopee on Nov. 11. From its regular price of P1,099, the Sports Band 5 will have its introductory price of P899 plus a FREE 20% Cashback voucher!

Looking forward to what this festive season brings? Watch out for more ho-ho-holiday exciting year-round deals from HONOR Mobile by following its website (https://www.hihonor.com/ ph/) and social pages on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/ HonorPhilippines), Instagram (http://w w w.instagram/com/ honorph), and Twitter (https:// twitter.com/honorph). You may also check HONOR’s Lazada

online global store (http://bit. ly/2NdcRP3 ) for more treats on November 11.

HONOR is a leading mobile device e-brand and a part of the HUAWEI Consumer Business Group. In line with its slogan, “HONOR My World”, the brand was created to meet the needs of millennials through internetoptimised products that offer superior user experiences, inspire action, foster creativity and empower the young to achieve their dreams. In doing this, Honor has set itself apart by showcasing its own bravery to do things differently and to take the steps needed to usher in the latest technologies and innovations for its customers.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

EXCITING DEALS ON NOKIA PHONES AT SHOPEE 11.11 GIFT-GIVING season is in full swing with Christmas just around the corner. Fast-track your gift shopping with exciting deals on Nokia phones. HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, joins Shopee, leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, in its annual 11.11 Big Christmas Sale, offering amazing deals exclusively available for one day.

The new Nokia 7.2, priced at P15,990, lets you capture holiday moments with its triple camera set up, which combines a highly sensitive 48MP sensor with Quad Pixel technology main camera and ZEISS Optics, ultra-wide camera, and depth camera to achieve stunning image capture results.

Running on Android 9 Pie with a promise of 2 years of OS upgrades and 3 years of monthly security patches, the Nokia 7.2 offers breath-taking immersive 6.3” FHD+ screen with PureDisplay technology and signature twoday battery life promise so you can binge-watch longer during the holiday break.

This gorgeous smartphone is made more irresistible with a free Nokia 105, our legendary phone built for those who want to embrace mobility that flaunts a familiar design, modern contours and a long-lasting battery, so you can be on a call for hours at a time Buy a Nokia 2.2 and get a free Bluetooth speaker Gift friends and colleagues a Nokia 2.2—the most accessible Android One smartphone with sophisticated AI-powered low light imaging so you can take detailed photos even in trickier low light conditions, face unlock, Google Assistant at the push of a button, all combined with the promise of 2 year of OS upgrades and 3 years of monthly security patches and an experience that keeps getting better.

Want to learn new dishes to serve on Christmas Eve? Or bump into a friend at the mall? Or want to take a selfie at a voice command? Just use the dedicated Google Assistant button on the Nokia 2.2 for instant access to the Google Assistant.

Sweetening the value of this amazing smartphone is an irresistible price of P5,111, down from its original price of P5,990 and a free Bluetooth speaker to amplify Yuletide cheers.

What makes this even more exciting is that two lucky 11.11 shoppers get to purchase this phone for only P1 when they join the “P1 Game”.

Get 50% discount when you buy a Nokia 5.1 Plus or a Nokia 8810 Share the joy of owning a new Nokia phone with loved ones by gifting them a Nokia 5.1 Plus or a Nokia 8810, both at 50 percent off at Shopee’s 11.11 sale.

From its original price of P12,990, grab a Nokia 5.1 Plus for only P6,490! This smartphone is for the more demanding mobile gamers and on-the-go bingewatchers. With its optimized power consumption, your escape into TV shows or gaming sessions will last longer.

The Nokia 8110, now priced at P1,990 from its original price of P3,990, is perfect for those who remain fans of the classics. This 4G feature phone comes complete with the elegantly curved slider design giving you the knowledge that all your smartphone essentials are there when you need them, yet you are switched off and can relax. With its Wi-Fi connection you can turn your Nokia 8110 into a portable hotspot to share your internet connection with other devices, friends and family. And it packs the classic Snake game.

Don’t miss these great deals at Shopee’s 11:11 Big Christmas Sale! Visit Nokia Mobile PH, Online Shop | Shopee Philippines for more information.

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TECH & Gadgets SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

SMART TEAMS UP WITH TIKTOK FOR GIGA OFFERS

P

LDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has partnered with TikTok, the world’s leading app for short-form mobile videos, in launching enhanced GIGA bundles featuring access to the mobile video app for its customers, particularly those belonging to the younger Millennial and Gen Z market.

Smart and TNT customers can now access TikTok with the new “GIGA Stories” offers, which also include access to social media platforms Facebook and Instagram. For P99, Smart and TNT subscribers get 2GB data, bundled with additional 1GB allocation per day for TikTok, Facebook and Instagram, valid for 7 days.

With these offers, TikTok users nationwide can maximize use of the app and make the most out of its short video creation, discovery and sharing features.

The Philippines has emerged as one of TikTok’s fastest-growing markets in the region, as the app has become a creative playground for younger Filipino users who love expressing themselves through their smartphones. The TikTok app’s diverse array of features includes a robust catalogue of copyrighted background music, filters and stickers. The app’s easy-to-use tools and features have also made creating unique and engaging videos easy and more accessible.

“TikTok is designed to capture the little moments that make your day and fulfill the growing demands of users to share, create and discover short videos of moments that matter to them.

We are delighted to have Smart as our ally in harnessing the creativity of Filipinos and showcasing it to our global audience,” said Steven

Smart and TNT customers can now access TikTok with the new “GIGA Stories” offers.

Tannason, Strategic Partnerships (SEA), TikTok. “Smart is committed to empower our customers in their pursuit of their passions. We are thrilled to forge this partnership with TikTok in bringing Smart closer to our younger Millennials and Gen Z subscribers, and making this enriching mobile video experience more accessible to more Filipinos,” said Oscar Enrico A. Reyes Jr., PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business—Individual Group.

BEST VIDEO EXPERIENCE IN PH Smart was recently cited by mobile analytics company Opensignal for delivering the country’s best mobile video experience across the Philippines and in 18 regions and provinces. The Opensignal report, which covered the period May 1 to July 29, 2019, also found that Smart is also ahead

of competition in terms of Download Speed, Upload Speed and Latency Experience.

Subscribers’ increasing data usage for video and games have boosted PLDT’s consumer wireless business revenues for the first half of 2019, which grew 20% year-on-year to P34.4 billion.

PLDT has provided for a historic capital expenditure program in 2019 amounting to P78.4 billion, which includes allocations for the further enhancement of the reach and capacity of PLDT’s fiber-powered fixed line broadband network and Smart’s LTE and 3G mobile data networks, as well as the modernization of PLDT-Smart’s IT support systems.

TikTok is available on the App Store for iOS devices and on Google Play Store for Android devices.

UPS: ECOMMERCE HAS UNLIMITED PH POTENTIAL

By Paul David L. Gelario UPS Philippines’ managing director recently revealed that the country has unlimited potential in ecommerce at a learning session for manufacturers and retailers held at Quest Hotel and Conference Center, in Clark Pampanga.

“I think there’s no limit. Ecommerce has huge amount of potential,” UPS Philippines and Indonesia Managing Director, Chris Buono said.

He advised businesses to adapt in this digital age and leverage the unlimited potential to expand and migrate their businesses online.

“Businesses need to adapt in this new procurement models, or risk missing out opportunities presented by digitalization,” Buono said.

Ecommerce has been growing around the world with a total of 30 percent market share.

To leverage this growth and stay ahead of competition, Buono advised entrepreneurs to build a strong online presence, deliver goods on

UPS Philippines and Indonesia Managing Director, Chris Buono pr

time, and maintain customer loyalty.

With UPS’ delivery service, manufacturers and retailers are assured to achieve quick, efficient, and cost-effective delivery.

“UPS is here to deliver quickly, effi-

ciently, and cost-effectively,” Buono said.

UPS utilizes three tech-driven delivery methods, these are UPS Quantum View Notify, UPS CampusShip, and World Ship to optimize delivery times and product quality handling that will

result to customer satisfaction.

The UPS Quantum View Notify sends automated alerts to facilitate coordination with sales, customer service, and production team.

UPS CampusShip centralizes all shipping transactions, automates shipping processes, and manages time and cost for shipping orders across the supply chain.

UPS’ shipping application, World Ship integrates and sends customer profiles to businesses to reduce costly paper work and further optimize delivery time.

This trio of combined features gave UPS a high 98 percent delivery time, and 99 percent for product quality that streamlined delivery shipments for businesses.

“We have a 98 percent on-time delivery rating, and a 99 percent for product quality,” Buono said.

Buono concluded at the end of his speech that by partnering with UPS, manufacturers will have a step forward in sustainability and supply chain management.

PLDT ROLLS OUT BIGGEST FREE SPEED UPGRADES FOR HOME FIBR SUBSCRIBERS LEADING telco and digital services provider, PLDT has announced that it is currently rolling out its biggest free speed upgrades for Home Fibr subscribers.

These special upgrades will boost speeds of subscribers up to twice the speed of their current plan and will let them enjoy unlimited, uninterrupted video streaming, lag-free gaming, and seamless browsing at home.

UP TO DOUBLE THE SPEEDS With these upgrades, Plan 6299 subscribers will enjoy 300 Mbps (from 250 Mbps), while Plan 4299 subscribers will experience up to 150 Mbps (from 120 Mbps).

On the other hand, Plan 2899 subscribers will double their speeds to enjoy up to 100 Mbps (from 50Mbps), while subscribers of Plan 1899, Plan 1699, and Plan 1299 will experience up to 30 Mbps, 20 Mbps, and 10 Mbps, respectively.

To enjoy the free speed boosts, Home Fibr customers simply have to visit www.pldt.com.ph/speedboost and update their contact details.

These latest round of speed boosts is meant to empower the increasing digital lifestyle of Filipino families, according to Butch Jimenez Head of Consumer Business, PLDT Home Group.

“The demand for high-speed internet is rapidly rising as our customers’ digital needs evolve. These free speed upgrades will definitely enrich the life of subscribers by expanding their access to world-class digital content powered by no less than the country’s undisputed fastest fixed network,” he said.

PLDT’s superior fiber-to-thehome network enables subscribers to enjoy up to 1 Gbps of symmetrical internet speeds or equal upload and download speeds.

FASTEST FIXED NETWORK IN PH PLDT Home is the Philippines’ fastest fixed internet service in 2019, according to global internet testing and analysis leader Ookla®. PLDT Home Fibr remains as the most powerful broadband suited for households as the company’s superior network Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) technology has reached 6.7 million homes passed as of end-March 2019. In a report based on a customer-initiated Speedtest among 25.2 million users in the Philippines, Ookla® said PLDT posted a Speed Score of 20.44, with top download speeds of 51.36 Mbps and top upload speeds of 54.22 Mbps.

PLDT continues to invest historic levels of resources to support network transformation, which is estimated to amount to US$ 5 billion from 2016 to 2020, with capital expenditures expected to reach P78.4 billion this year.

PLDT has rolled out the country’s most extensive fixed and wireless network infrastructure which now has 259,000 kms of fiber optic cables designed to support the Filipinos’ growing use of fixed and mobile data.

Visit pldthome.com or check out PLDT Home’s latest TVC for more information.

SHOPEE HOLDS 1ST-EVER 11.11 BIG CHRISTMAS TV SPECIAL SHOPEE, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, will be holding its first-ever televised show, the 11.11 Big Christmas TV Special on Nov. 10 at 10:30 p.m., aired on GMA7 and Shopee Live. The star-studded show will feature performances by popular GMA stars, Alden Richards, Maine Mendoza, and Heart Evangelista, in an exciting live countdown to the finale of the Shopee 11.11 Big Christmas Sale on 11 November. In addition, it will also include the premiere of the latest Shopee’s jingle, exclusively composed by Jose Mari Chan for this year’s festive season.

Martin Yu, Associate Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Christmas is an important holiday for Filipinos, and we are thrilled to kickstart the celebrations in the biggest way possible with our very first televised Christmas concert, the Shopee 11.11 Big Christmas TV Special. With this, we hope to deepen engagement with our users by bringing them closer to their favorite stars and brands, and also to foster the festive spirit in the Philippines. We invite everyone to join in the excitement on 10 November as we count down together to our 11.11 Big Christmas Sale. ”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SHOPEE 11.11 BIG CHRISTMAS TV SPECIAL Debut of Shopee’s latest Christmas jingle: Catch a live performance of the new Shopee Christmas jingle by Jose Mari Chan, which was exclusively composed for this year’s festive season.

Star-studded show: Watch top celebrities such as Alden Richards, Maine Mendoza, and Heart Evangelista perform all-time favorite Christmas songs. Also, enjoy special guest appearances by Gabbi Garcia, Lani Missalucha, Julie Anne San Jose and many more popular homegrown stars.

Over P11 million worth of prizes, deals, and discounts including a house and lot: Stand a chance to win exciting prizes including a Rusi Mojo 200 motorcycle, Toyota Fortuner, and a house and lot from Avida by tuning in to 3 special Shopee Shake sessions during the program.

Score amazing deals and vouchers: Enjoy amazing discounts of up to 70% from leading brands like Unilever, Pampers, Maybelline, Anker, and Perfetti van Melle during the show.

EXCITING PROMOTIONS, GIVEAWAYS AND DISCOUNTS ON NOVEMBER 11 Shopee 11.11 Big Christmas Sale will

culminate on Nov. 11 with exciting promotions including: All-day sitewide free shipping with P0 minimum spend.

Up to 90% off deals: Score up to 90% off deals during the finale of Shopee 11.11 Big Christmas Sale, such as the Xiaomi Redmi 7 and Redmi 7A. Consumers can also get the HUG 32” LED TV LT32, and the Rapoo V600 Gamepad XB360; both available at only P11.

12-hour non-stop live stream: Look forward to non-stop challenges and vouchers during the exclusive 12-hour Shopee Live session from 12 noon to 12 midnight, and watch out for five iPhone 11 giveaways.

Exciting giveaways via Shopee Shake and Shopee Catch: Stand a chance to win from a pool of 2 million Shopee coins and an iPhone 11 by playing Shopee Shake. Shopee will also be upsizing its latest Shopee Catch, with a total of 6 game sessions and a 1 million coin pool to be won.

Exclusive deals from leading brands: Shop exclusive deals from leading brands such as Pampers, Silverworks, Bosch, Unilever, Maybelline, Olay, Pantene, Globe, Anker, Safeguard, Watsons, and Huawei.

Countdown to the finale of the Shopee 11.11 Big Christmas Sale with live performances by top homegrown celebrities and the debut of Shopee’s latest Christmas jingle

Destinations D1

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

@MStandardLIFE

PERFECT CONE.

Legazpi City in Albay takes pride in its legendary peak, rich history, and treasure trove of wonders.

LEGAZPI: LAND OF LEGENDS AND LEISURE T

HERE is something majestic about the first class city of Legazpi in Albay.

It’s quite easy to understand why: named after the legendary Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, its icons are draped in mythology.

Legazpi’s most popular attraction, the Mayon Volcano is a sacred image, not only of the city but of Albay, renowned for its perfect cone. It was named after the legendary princess-heroine Daragang Magayon, who, legend said, fell in love with Pangaronon.

The volcano is said to be the burial site of the two lovers. Some say Mayon Volcano shows herself—as in its symmetrical conical shape— to those with pure heart.

Aside from its legendary peak, Legazpi is a treasure trove of wonders, which its new tagline “There is More to Legazpi” aims to capture.

The city celebrates Ibalong Festival, Bicol region’s biggest non-religious festivity. The joyous affair is filled with cultural, entertainment, and sporting events, and highlighted by a parade where participating contingents recreate the chapters of the mythology through a street theater presentation.

Now in its 28th year, this year’s celebration was a modern recreation of a mid 19th-century fragments of 60-stanza epic poem penned by Spanish friar Bernardino de Melendreras about the precolonial era of the region which was then known as Ibalong.

Written in the mold of ancient mythologies, the epic tells of superhuman heroes—Baltog,

Explore different trails and revel in the beauty of Mayon Volcano while riding an all-terrain vehicle.

Scuba diving in Albay Gulf

Daraga Church is known for its Churrigueresque architectural style.

DREAMS AT THE CONRAD

The dazzling nighttime view from my favorite room at Conrad Manila.

Handyong, and Bantong—who rid the land of fearsome beasts and helped it attain its golden era. The epic has an open-ended conclusion as if to allow the readers to draw their own scenarios of heroism in contemporary circumstances.

Ibalong has inspired countless stage plays and productions, the most prominent of which was a dance musical by Tanghalang Pilipino at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2013.

The city is also the site of the summertime Magayon Festival of Albay Province. The festival relives the legend of Mayon Volcano.

These legends and other historical events are immortalized at the newly opened Museo de Legazpi, one of the country’s most modern local government-run museums.

Legazpi is more than its legends and historical events. Dubbed the “City of Fun and Adventure,” it is Bicol’s regional center, aerial gateway and tourism hub, and home to a wide array of cozy boutique hotels, homegrown restaurants serving delectable local cuisine, as well as lifestyle malls.

Must-do recreational activities which have gained global fame is the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) ride along the Mayon Lava Wall and the Ligñon Hill zipline with the volcano in the background.

The city is also positioning itself as a scuba diving spot with its newly discovered coral reef gardens in Albay Gulf, and a golf getaway with the Par 72, 18-hole Trent Jones-designed Mayon Golf Course.

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Boutique hotel Charlie's El Nido will open in January 2020.

HII-MANAGED BOUTIQUE HOTEL TO OPEN IN PALAWAN A BOUTIQUE hotel, managed by Hospitality Innovators, Inc., is soon to open on top of a cliff on Lio island in El Nido, Palawan.

Charlie’s El Nido will open its doors in January 2020 to families and friends looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay.

The boutique hotel features tropically inspired rooms with exquisite views, well-equipped facilities, and sophisticated amenities.

The hotel is named after the son of Juan Paolo Tumacder and Garet BacaniTumacder. “That is a testament to the commitment of the Tumacder family to create an extraordinary experience for families and friends to enjoy, far away from the busy noise of the city,” Charlie’s El Nido said in a statement.

Sophisticated amenities inside a Premiere Room.

Though located atop a cliff, Charlie’s said the hotel is easily accessible.

There are five different room types to accommodate different kinds of traveler. In addition to lush beds that lull vacationers to restful sleep, rooms open up directly to the swimming pool or to a private balcony offering breathtaking views of Palawan’s world-famous landscape. Room rates start at P8,000.

Turn to D2

Capili, who signs his masterpieces THE title of this column will probwith “Rosscapili,” is multi-awarded ably make you think right away in the fields of painting, photograthat I will be describing how much phy, and digital medium.

I enjoy my many “staycations” at I first met this artist several demy favorite hotel-by-the-sea, Concades ago when I was the country rad Manila. Well, yes, but, there’s manager of the Northwest Airlines much, much more than that.

GSA and we sponsored an art Spending a few days at this hoMERCURY RISING competition which his 11-year-old tel is something I always look forBY BOB ZOZOBRADO daughter won. You can easily see ward to. The service is impeccable, how potent his artistic genes are. the facilities are all to my liking, Rosscapili’s collectible art pieces, and they always give me the best room in the house: that corner suite right in front painted on canvas and shaped in steel, are narratives of of the bayside Ferris Wheel. This is why I wasn’t sur- his love for nature, music, and all things that represent prised when the hotel was recognized in the Conde celebration and happy memories of traveling.

He held his first solo exhibit in 1981 and has since Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards as one of the mounted over 30 exhibits in Manila, Paris, and in 2019 Best Hotels in The World.

With the spectacular view of the glorious Manila many parts of the United States. He has also particiBay sunset, and the colorful lights of the amusement pated in over 35 group exhibitions in Japan, Taiwan, park right in front of the hotel sparkling at nighttime, Malaysia, Mongolia, Indonesia, and South Korea.

During the Conrad Manila Cocktails launching his I get fully de-stressed by just looking at them and I easily get lulled to a restful sleep which makes pos- exhibit, Rosscapili was asked why he is such a prosible beautiful dreams that crown a good night’s rest. lific painter, continuously dishing out excellent masBut what prompted me to talk about my happy terpieces. His answer was very simple—he sleeps a dreams at the hotel was the launch of a famous art- lot (and I presume he always has a restful sleep) and ist’s exhibit at its Gallery C. The 60-year-old Rossano Turn to D2

Destinations

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

The lobby is bathed in natural light.

HII-MANAGED...

From D1

Guests looking for more adventures are in for a treat as the hotel also offers many activities to enjoy on the pristine white beaches, in the turquoise waters, and other tourist destinations around the island.

“Charlie’s will be accessible to all main attractions on the island. We want it to be a hip and tropical resort for both local and foreign tourists,” said Tumacder.

The boutique hotel is located at Km 279 National Hi-way, Barangay Villa Libertad, El Nido, Palawan. Go to charlieselnido. com for more information.

AMAWATERWAYS'

DREAMS...

BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP SAILS ON THE DANUBE

From D1

when he wakes up, he paints the images he dreamt of.

Hearing that, I felt so inadequate with my dreams because, most of the time, I don’t even remember them. But someone who can clearly put on canvas the colors, shapes, and poetry that his dreams are made of is definitely gifted…and enviable.

F

DREAMING OF DANUBE. AmaWaterways' largest river cruise ship to date, AmaMagna, begins operation on the Danube.

ROM a vision seven years ago, AmaWaterways announces its biggest river cruise ship to date is set to begin operations on the Danube.

The multi-awarded artist, Rosscapili, in front of one of his masterpieces.

This exceptionally skilled artist has garnered more than 55 awards and distinctions, including the Jurors’ Choice in the 1994 Philip Morris ASEAN Art Awards; the Pamana Ng Lahi Award in San Francisco, California in 2001; the 2008 PATA Gold Award for Travel Photo Journalism in Hyderabad, India; and the 2009 Ani Ng Dangal Presidential Award.

“We first had the vision for AmaMagna nearly seven years ago. Like the ship herself, the construction journey has been a one-of-a-kind involvement,” said AmaWaterways co-founder Rudi Schreiner.

The vessel is the 23rd addition to the brand’s growing fleet.

At 135 meters long and 22 meters wide—almost twice as large as other river cruise ships—it hosts 196 passengers, which rivals the capacity of some usual-width counterparts.

All of the 98 staterooms and suites are appointed with stylish décor and natural wood accents.

The suites feature full outside balconies, open seating areas, and

luxurious bathrooms, complete with double sinks and walk-in showers. Six Grand Suites and an Owner’s Suite provide even more amenities with sizable bathrooms complete with spa-like bathtubs.

Other suites also come with giant flat-screen televisions, Apple computers with free Wi-Fi, glassenclosed showers, and separate bathrooms.

A variety of dining options is available onboard.

The Al Fresco, with retractable ceiling and windows, is open for self-service breakfast and lunch, and sit-down dinner with vegetable-forward menus. Meanwhile, a Each suite features full outside balcony, open seating area, and luxurious bathroom.

YOUR WEEKEND CHUCKLE “Old” is when you are cautioned to SLOW DOWN by the doctor instead of by the police.

Rosscapili’s Tales & Trails Exhibit is part of Conrad Manila’s “Of Art and Wine” series at the Gallery C and will be on display until January 2020.

I was almost tempted to ask Rosscapili what he takes before going to sleep so that my brain can also generate those “vivid colors, shapes, and poetry” that he gets. But, in case it doesn’t work for me, a “staycation” at Conrad Manila is still worth dreaming of.

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

LEGAZPI...

From D1 The city takes pride in Legazpi Boulevard, one of the longest bay roads outside Metro Manila, a tourism and recreational zone with the Dapdap Waterfront Park which will have an esplanade, amphitheater, beach volleyball court, elderly fitness yard, children’s playground, and skateboard court.

Legazpi is also becoming a favorite for national and international conferences and events because of its convention facilities and urban amenities.

Recognizing the potential of the MICE sector, the city government itself has built its own convention center to supplement the city-run Ibalong Centrum for Recreation and the hotel-based

Al Fresco is open for self-service breakfast and lunch, and sit-down dinner.

conference halls.

This market accounts for the bulk of the city’s 1.2 million annual foreign and domestic tourists. In recognition of its role as an emerging MICE hub, the city will host World Food Expo in 2020, the first time the annual event will be held outside Manila.

Beefing up the city’s room inventory is the newly opened 83-room The Oriental Hotel Albay.

Because of the unique blend of the mountains and the sea, it is also a preferred venue for adventure sports events such as the Xterra Off-Road Triathlon Race, Air 21 Le Tour de Filipinas, LBC’s Ronda Pilipinas, the Mt. Mayon Triathlon, the 80-km Mayon 360 Albay Ultramarathon, and dragonboat tournaments, among others.

Steph Llarena

seven-course menu awaits at the Chef’s Table.

Jimmy’s Wine Bar, named after AmaWaterways’ late co-founder Jimmy Murphy, is a family-style diner where appetizers are served at the same time so sharing between all is highly encouraged.

In all venues, wines, beers, and sodas are complimentary for lunches and dinners. The pre-dinner Sip and Sail cocktail hour at the lounge likewise provides freeflowing drinks for everyone.

For the fitness requirements of passengers, AmaMagna has inhouse instructors who host daily early morning stretching and warm-ups plus yoga classes and more intense programs as the day progresses. A gym is complimentary for all on board.

The ship's spa offers massages, manicures, and pedicures.

While the sun deck pool and whirlpool provide guests a re-

Ibalong Festival features contingents recreating the chapters of the 60-stanza epic poem.

freshing location to unwind and enjoy the views.

The AmaMagna sails on the Danube, in seven-night cruises between Budapest and Vilshofen, sailing through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany.

In 2020, she will embark on select one-week cruises on Eastern Europe, from Budapest to Giurgiu, and plans to progress through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Tour operator Intas Destinations represents AmaWaterways in the country. “We are thrilled and excited to welcome AmaMagna into our repertoire of cruises on offer.

Its groundbreaking amenities are one that travelers should definitely line up for,” said Intas founder Teresita Henderson.

Contact Intas destinations at (02) 772-3314 or go to intastravel.com for more information.

The 18-hole Mayon Golf Course has the majestic Mayon Volcano as its backdrop.

Entertainment

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

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

CINEMA ONE ORIGINALS KICKS OFF WITH HORROR THRILLER

‘THE LIGHTHOUSE’

Born To Be Wild’s Doc Ferds (left) and Doc Nielsen

‘BORN TO BE WILD’

Stars gather at Cinema One Originals 2019 opening night

By Nickie Wang

T

HE annual Cinema One Originals Film Festival, a division of ABS-CBN Films, had a star-studded opening at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay on Thursday night. The stars of the competing films were in full force to support the independent film fest’s 15th edition.

Regine Velasquez, Rayt Carreon, Arron Villaflor, Jane Oineza, Jerould Aceron, Yayo Aguila, Mara Lopez, and Jana Agoncillo were among the celebrities who walked on the red carpet.

Meanwhile, Cinema One Originals brings multitude of new takes on storytelling through its exciting World Cinema section line-up for its 15th year, featuring the filmsThe Lighthouse, the much-awaited sophomore film from The Witch director Robert Eggers. The film stars Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson as lighthouse keepers slowly going insane on a black rock.

David Sims of theatleantic.com commends

‘The Lighthouse’ stars Robert Pattinson (left) and Willem Dafoe

the film for capturing its audience in its strangeness.

He wrote, “It’s a bracing squall of a movie, a briny delight that’s as amusing as it is mesmerizingly strange.”

Completing the lineup of foreign films to be exhibited in this year’s edition of Cinema One Originals are The Father, The Invisible Life of Eurice Gusmao, Knives Out,Matthias and Maxime, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, “The Truth, and The Two Popes.

The main competition, on the other hand, offers eight entries of different genres.

Victor Villanueva’s Lucid, written by Natts Jadaone, stars Alessandra de Rossi and JM de Guzman. The story is about Ann, a luminous dreamer crosses paths with another of her kind which makes her realize her dreams are far more alive than her reality.

Metamorphosis is a coming-of-age story about Adam, a 14-year-old kid who was born with a secret of having both male and female genitals. It stars Jerould Aceron, Iana Bernardez, and Ivan Padilla, and it is directed by J.E. Tiglao.

Lauren Young, Anna Luna, Sarah Carlos, and Jasmine Curtis-Smith lead the cast of Kevin Dayrit’s O, where vampire drug lord Matilda forces morgue intern Maria to become a blood pusher in exchange for her life, selling dried blood sachets to modern-day, harmless vampires.

Giancarlo Abrahan returns to C1 Originals with Sila-Sila, a comedy about a boy who falls in and out of love with “the same people.” The movie stars Topper Fabregasand Gio Gahol.

Tayo Muna Habang Hindi Pa Tayo, a romance drama by Denise O’ Hara, zeroes in on the roller coaster breakup of Alex (Jane Oineza) and Carlo (JC Santos).

Eve Baswel’s horror entry Tia Madre is about 10-year-old Angel (Jana Agoncillo) who is living alone with her warm and loving mother (Cherie Gil), who unexpectedly became distant and violent towards her.

A crime comedy entry, Dustin Celestino’s Utopia stars Vin Abrenica, Arron Villaflor, and Enzo Pineda. The film is about a

videographer, a rookie police officer, and an undercover agent whose lives intertwine in the labyrinth of a violent city’s underbelly.

Yours Truly, Shirley that sees Regine Velasquez-Alcasid’s return to doing movies is a comedy directed by Nigel Santos. The film sees Regine play a widow who believes a young popstar (Rayt Carreon) is the reincarnation of her deceased husband.

The festival runs until Nov. 17 at Trinoma, Glorietta, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Gateway, and Powerplant Makati.

There will also be screenings at Vista Cinemas in Iloilo and Evia Lifestyle and in Cinema Centenario, Cinema ‘76, Black Maria, UP Cine Adarna, and FDCP Cinematheque Manila.

Tayo Muna Habang Hindi Pa Tayo’ lead actress Jane Oineza

‘Yours Truly Shirley’ star Regine Velasquez on C1 Originals 2019 opening night red carpet

AIRS THREE-PART ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL TODAY, travel and wildlife program Born to be Wild premiers its three-part anniversary special to celebrate its 12 years on television.

As a young vet starting his hosting job in Born to be Wild nearly 12 years ago, Doc Ferds Recio met “Zambo”, a baby dugong in Zamboanga City.

Zambo was found stranded in a port, alone, without its mother. Marine mammal experts and veterinarians bonded together and tried to rehabilitate Zambo, hoping the baby dugong can be released back into the wild. Sadly, Zambo did not survive.

Since then, Doc Ferds has gone on to encounter more dugongs in the wild, including a group of dugongs in an island in Davao. But Doc Ferds has always wanted to document the dugong in a protected state, to see the species thriving free from danger, unlike the stranded dugong he once encountered.

Finally, the time has come. In Palawan, a friendly dugong called “Aban” is well-loved by the locals for changing their lives and livelihood.

Here, the dugong is protected in its very home.

In Tawi-Tawi, residents are no stranger to crocodiles. Saltwater crocs have long thrived in the mangroves of Tawi-Tawi and encounters with humans are not unheard of. But recently, a much larger croc with a different “marking” on its head has been seen in the area.

The strange marking was observed in a crocodile surrendered in the Marines camp in Tawi-Tawi. Experts suspect that the crocodile is not the saltwater croc typically found in the Philippines, but a migrating croc from Malaysia.

Doc Nielsen Donato and croc experts employ DNA analysis to confirm this. If true, why are these larger crocs migrating to Tawi-Tawi?

Born to be Wild’s three-part 12th anniversary special premieres today right after AHA! on GMA 7.

STARSTRUCK’S SHAYNE JOINS CHRIS TIU IN ‘IBILIB’ TODAY in iBilib, Starstruck season 7 Ultimate Female Survivor Shayne Sava joins host Chris Tiu for the first time. Along with youngsters Angelia Ulip, Leanne Bautista and Euwenn Aleta, they cook an egg in liquid— even without heat.

They also discover the vinyl record, and upcycle it into a candy bowl.

The “Bilibabols” feature a home-made toy rocket using a plastic bottle, vinegar and baking soda.

Meanwhile, through various experiments, the informative show will answer these questions through its “Street Genius” team: Will three kinds of machines defeat a human in kicking a football the farthest?; and which directions will balloons (filled with helium and mere air) move, while inside a traveling vehicle?

Finally, in “Huling Hirit,” everyone chips in to make a Christmas tree from old CDs and other discarded stuff.

All these on GMA this morning in I-Bilib.

‘Starstruck’ Season 7 Ultimate Female Survivor Shayne Sava joins host Chris Tiu and the kids of ‘iBilib’ in today’s another informative and entertaining episode.

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C

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2019

Desiree Carlos, Editor

Pets

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

COPING WITH GRIEF

RY if you must. Grieve. Your dog was not just a dog. Your cat was not just a cat.

It is perfectly natural for you to grieve over the death of a pet.

Do not let anyone tell you it is stupid to do so. Your pet was your baby, your best friend, your companion.

“It is natural to feel devastated by feelings of grief and sadness when a beloved dog, cat, or other pet dies,” stressed Help Guide in the article “In Coping with Losing a Pet.” But do seek help in this hour of grief.

Here are healthy ways to cope with the pain from Help Guide: Don’t let anyone tell you how to feel, and don’t think you should feel this way or that way. Just allow yourself the sadness over the loss of a loved one, your pet.

“Your grief is your own, and no one else can tell you when it’s time to ‘move on’ or ‘get over it.’ Let yourself feel whatever you feel without em-

barrassment or judgment. It’s okay to be angry, to cry or not to cry. It’s also okay to laugh, to find moments of joy, and to let go when you’re ready,” help Guide said.

Reach out to others who have lost pets.

Those who have lost their pets understand what you are going through.

“Check out online message boards, pet loss hotlines, and pet loss support groups…If your own friends and family members are not sympathetic about pet loss, find someone who is,” Help Guide said.

Rituals can help healing.

You can hold a funeral to help you and your family members openly express your feelings.

“Ignore people who think it’s inappropriate to hold a funeral for a pet, and do what feels right for

MY FURRY BESTIE

THIS corner features pets of animal lovers every week. We hope new owners and those thinking of getting a pet will be encouraged to be responsible “furparents” through these features.

We also hope more people will be moved to be kind to animals when they read about the great relationship that can be created between humans and animals.

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

Yellow just loved to chill out anywhere. It was so easy to please her. In return, she rewarded her rescuers with her infectious smile. Be happy in heaven, Yellow baby.

you,” Help Guide said.

Create a legacy.

Those who lost their pets were able to move on when they prepared a memorial, planted a tree in memory of their pets, compiled a photo album or scrapbook, or shared the memories in ways they felt good about.

You “can create a legacy to celebrate the life of your animal companion. Remembering the fun and love you shared with your pet can help you to eventually move on, “ Help Guide said.

Look after yourself.

“The stress of losing a pet can quickly deplete your energy and emotional reserves. Looking after your physical and emotional needs will help you get through this difficult time. Spend time face to face with people who care about you, eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly to release endorphins and help boost your mood,” Help Guide said.

If you have other pets, try to maintain your normal routine.

Your surviving pets can experience the loss like you, may be distressed by your sorrow.

“Maintaining their daily routines, or even increasing exercise and play times, will not only benefit the surviving pets but can also help to elevate your mood and outlook, too,” said Help Guide.

Yellow always made us smile when she was alive. Rescued in 2015, she died three years later due to addison's disease, a Seek professional help if you need it. hormonal disorder caused by the deficient production of the adrenal gland hormones, cortisol and aldosterone. In this If your grief is already interfering photo, Yellow was surprised when Doc Anthony inserted a needle to extract blood for a test. That expression is priceless!

Though Yellow is missed, going back to Yellow's photos warms the heart. She is gone physically, but she lives in the hearts with your ability to function, please of many she encouraged to be more loving towards animals, specially stray dogs like her. consult your doctor. DC

RINGANGU is the youngest member of the San Jose family.

Fey Fey, Ringangu’s young owner, loves her very much.

Fey Fey (in the photo) loves to hug Ringangu all the time while Ringangu loves to chase Fey Fey always.

At five months old, Ringangu is a certified mouse chaser. This five-month-old kitten has caught so many rats that Fey Fey’s house is now free of rodents.

Ringangu eats vegetables and fruits.

Aside from this, Ringangu loves her owner’s baon. Fey Fey shares her sandwich with Ringangu always.

Every day is another day to play for human Fey Fey and catto Ringangu. They just love each other’s company so much.

NATURAL TREATS FOR DOGGIES Directions: Mix yogurt with pumpkin, spoon into small muffin cups, and freeze. You can also spoon immediately over dry kibble.

PET TALES

BY DESIREE CARLOS MORE and more dog owners want to include their pets in the Christmas eve and New Year’s eve celebration.

We have been getting messages asking for more recipes for their dogs.

Here are some recipes from Dog Time that dog owners can try. We put some notes though beside the ingredients.

Dog Time however warns that “These recipes do not meet 100 percent of dogs’ nutritional needs.

They are intended to help owners prepare the occasional treat, not to serve as the basis of any dog’s diet. If you wish to cook for your dog regularly, please consult a vet or veterinary nutritionist to learn about nutritionally balanced meals.”

Diggers’ Dream Muffins Ingredients: • 1 1/2 cups oat flour • 1 cup rolled oats • 1 cup oat bran • 2 tsp baking soda • 1 tsp cinnamon • 1 egg lightly beaten • 1/4 cup honey • 3 tbsp vegetable oil • 3/4 cup nonfat milk • 1/4 cup shredded zucchini or carrots Ace with his treat.

Baby food stew Ingredients: • 1 cup hamburger meat (Writer’s note: preferably beef ground round we use for spaghetti), stir-fried in 1 tbsp olive oil (optional) • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (Writer’s note: cooked like congee is bes.t) • 2 jars of baby food veggies (peas, green beans, carrots, spinach) - (Writer’s note: or boil veggies, then mix in a blender to puree them.)

• 2 tbsp fat-free cottage cheese (optional)

If it is not too cold, you can give FROZEN pumpsicles. But do not give when it is cold in your area as this might cause colds and cough. You can keep this recipe for the summer season.

You can still give this during the cold season by NOT FREEZING the mixed ingredients. Just pour over the dog food after mixing the ingredients.

Again, do not freeze if you will give this during the cold months.

Directions: Combine all ingredients. These are pre-cooked anyway. Let the dish cool before serving. Then store leftovers in the fridge.

Ingredients: • 16 oz non-fat yogurt, cow or goat • 1 lbs pumpkin puree (not the same thing as pumpkin pie filling)

Pumpsicles

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 425.

2. Line muffin tins with foil/paper muffin forms.

3. Mix dry ingredients.

4. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, honey and oil.

5. Mix the milk in with the dry ingredients, blending well.

6. Mix the carrots or zucchini into the honey mixture, then mix the honey mixture into the flour/milk batter.

7. Put in muffin tins and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. (These muffins freeze well.)

8. To add protein you also have the option of adding an egg or boiled egg to each muffin.

9. Simply place a small amount of batter at the bottom of the muffin tin, place an egg on top, and then fill in with more muffin mix.

“It will blow your dog’s mind, “ Dog Time said.

JAGUAR, now nine months old, was found sleeping under a wooden chair.

“I would drive around the corner where he lives. Never did I see him with a mommy beside him,” says rescuer/adopter Camille Santos.

“One time. it was raining, and the poor thing was soaking wet. I decided to pull over and take him home,” Camille recalls.

“Now, Jaguar and my son are inseparable. He is the long lost sibling Liam never had, “ Camille says.

Camille adds: “He taught my son to be responsible and more loving to animals.”

Editor's note: These stories were compiled by admin Miks Lim of Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL), a SEC-registered animal welfare group that helps animals in need, and encourages and promotes responsible pet ownership, adoption of rescued dogs and cats from fosters, shelters and pounds, and spaying and neutering of pets to control animal population in the country, among others.