Manila Standard - 2020 September 23 - Wednesday

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Duterte calls for UN reforms ‘We are at a crossroads. How we address virus will define our future.’

IN AN unprecedented move to assert the country’s position on the South China Sea, President Rodrigo Duterte raised the 2016 arbitral award that rejected Beijing’s excessive nine-dash-line claim before the United Nations General Assembly.

By Joyce Pangco Pañares

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has challenged the United Nations (UN) to undergo selfassessment and reform as the international body finds itself straddled with its “biggest test since World War II”­—the humanitarian and socio-economic backlash of the COVID-19 pandemic­—on its 75th anniversary. Addressing the United Nations General Assembly through a taped message at dawn Wednesday—the first time since he took office in 2016—Duterte said the UN and the world at large are at a crossroads now. He noted how COVID-19 has “brought about an unfamiliar global

President asserts arbitral award rejecting China’s claim in SCS

U.N. FIRST. President

Rodrigo Duterte addresses the United Nations General Assembly for the first time during his tenure on the 75th anniversary of the world body on Wednesday. The President touched on several topics during his pre-recorded televised speech.

landscape and unleashed a crisis without precedent.” “While the United Nations Next page

Palace: House Speakership a numbers game By Maricel V. Cruz PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is still hopeful that House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano will honor his termsharing deal with Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco, the Palace said Tuesday. In a virtual Palace briefing, presidential spokesman Harry Roque saiDuterte wanted his two allies to take turns in holding the highest position at the House of Next page Representatives.

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 201• 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

NBI exec nabbed in ‘pastillas’ bribery entrapment By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Willie Casas THE chief of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Legal Assistance Bureau was arrested Monday night for

allegedly accepting bribes from those involved in the alleged “pastillas” scheme in the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The scheme was called “pastillas” supposedly because the bribe money would be rolled in a sheet of bond paper like the

wrapping of the Filipino milk candy of the same name. The arrest of the NBI official was confirmed by Janet Francisco, chief of the NBI Anti-Human Trafficking Division, upon questioning by Senator Risa Next page

In his taped message for the UNGA aired early Wednesday, Duterte took a swipe at China for refusing to recognize the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration. “The Philippines affirms that commitment in the South China Sea in accordance with UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award. The Award is now part of international law, beyond compromise and beyond the reach of passing governments to dilute, diminish or abandon. We firmly reject attempts to undermine it,” the President said. “We welcome the increasing number of states that have come in support of the award and what it stands for—the triumph of reason over rashness, of law Next page

Rody: Human rights being ’weaponized‘ PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte denounced what he described as efforts to weaponize human rights as he assured the United Nations that the Philippines is open to a dialog for as long as certain principles, including non-interference, are observed. Duterte raised the issue of accusations of human rights violations against his administration in his taped message for the UN General Assembly early Wednesday. “The Philippines will continue to protect the human rights of its people, especially from the scourge of illegal drugs, criminality, and terrorism. A number of interest groups have weaponized human rights; some well-meaning, others ill-intentioned. They attempt to discredit the functioning institutions Next page

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM SEPT. 22)

291,789 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

1,635 56,097 NEW

ACTIVE

5,049

50

230,643

450

DEATHS

RECOVERIES

By Maricel V. Cruz

DTI presses lifting of NCR curfew By Othel V. Campos and Willie Casas THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will endorse the lifting of curfew in all local government units once Metro Manila and other areas are allowed to shift to modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) by October 1. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said businesses, especially small enter-

DFA: Conflict in WPS only with China THE Philippines’ conflict in the West Philippine Sea is only with China and not with the other claimants in the area, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said Tuesday. He dismissed suggestions that the Philippines is in conflict with the other claim-

ants who had taken features before the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas was adopted. He agreed with the position of former Supreme Court justice Antonio Carpio, a long-time advocate of the Philippines’ sovereignty in the disputed waters. Next page

NEW

Ombudsman stops lifestyle checks in gov’t

‘PASTILLAS’ PROTECTOR? Former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre (above left) and former presidential special envoy Ramon Tulfo point at each other as they trade barbs at the Senate on Tuesday. Lawmakers dug deeper into the widespread corruption inside the Bureau of Immigration known as the ‘pastillas’ scheme, as senators confirmed the arrest of National Bureau of Investigation legal assistance bureau chief Joshua Paul Capiral (inset), tagged as one of the protectors of the scheme. Joseph Vidal / Senate PRIB

BACK FROM DEATH ROW. Rose Policarpio (right, in black), an overseas Filipino worker who was once on death row for allegedly committing murder in Saudi Arabia, is welcomed home Tuesday by a Department of Foreign Affairs official at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Policarpio will be reunited with her family once COVID-19 emergency health protocols are complied with. DFA photo

NEW

prises, can operate for longer hours if the limitation on operating hours is scrapped. “We would like to suggest this to the local government executives so these enterprises and establishments can operate closer to normal in the new normal,” he said. He added that longer business hours would mean more jobs for more people and more take-home pay for the regular workers. Next page

IN ORDERING a stop to the conduct of lifestyle checks on public officials, Ombudsman Samuel Martires told Congress on Tuesday his office does not need the officials’ Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) to investigate them for corruption, and that the document itself could be weaponized against them. Fielding questions during the hearing of the Ombudsman's proposed budget for 2021, Martires told congressmen: “Failure in such (lifestyle check) does not prove than an official is corrupt.” The law that covers lifestyle check on public officials is “illogical" and should be amended, Martires added. Next page

Local virus death toll tops 5k mark with 50 new tally THE COVID-19 death toll in the Philippines breached the 5,000-mark on Tuesday as health officials reported 50 new fatalities. The Department of Health (DOH) recorded 1,635 additional COVID-19 cases, the lowest in about two weeks, but the number of deaths since the pandemic started rose to 5,049. The last time that new cases were lower than 2,000 was on Sept. 7. Next page

NEW JET. Officials of the Philippine Embassy in the United States, the PH Department of Defense, and aircraft firm Gulfstream stand beside the brand-new Gulfstream G280 command-and-control aircraft (C2) the company donated to the government in Dallas, Texas on Monday. The jet will be assigned to the Philippine Air Force's Air Mobility Command, the unit responsible for transport missions based in Mactan, Cebu. DND Photo

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

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News

Del Rosario repeats SCS plea By Rey E. Requejo

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ORMER Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario on Tuesday reiterated his call on President Rodrigo Duterte to bring up for enforcement before the United Nations the Philippines’ 2016 arbitral victory against China over the disputed South China Sea.

videoconference. In a virtual presser, Presidential Assistant for Foreign Affairs Robert Borje confirmed Duterte’s attendance as the 12th speaker during the debate. The General Assembly’s annual general debate takes place when heads of state, government and other senior national representatives present their views on pressing world issues. Duterte is expected to discuss the Philippines’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, human rights and justice, Malacañang said. Del Rosario says it is only appropriate for Manila to raise the Arbitral Ruling over the South China Sea before the UN General Assembly due to China’s continuing “unlawful oppression in the disputed waterways. “We all know fully well about China’s continuing unlawful oppression in the South China Sea, which include preventing our fishermen from pursuing their

livelihood in Scarborough Shoal and in our West Philippine Sea, blocking the development of our natural resources, mercilessly destroying our marine environment, erecting military facilities in our waters and ridiculously confronting our President with the threat of war.” Del Rosario earlier said Manila should not submit to the threats of force or war from China. "It is a grave insult to our forefathers who died and fought for our country’s self-respect and independence if we only cower in fear before such threats. It is also a grave insult to our children and grandchildren if we give away our waters and territories in the face of such threats," Del Rosario said. "As we had previously said, we are opposed to war—as we should be. But if threatened by the use of force, we should be ready to inflict, at the very least, a bloody nose on any attacker who is out to harm us.”

Del Rosario expressed hope that Duterte would finally listen to the Filipinos that the “government should raise the Arbitral Ruling in the UN General Assembly and other international forums for action.” He says there is international support for the Philippines’ legal rights in the West Philippines Sea. "The position of France, Germany and the UK also unequivocally supports the will of the Filipino people, as shown in surveys, that our government should

raise the Arbitral Ruling in the UN General Assembly and other international forums," Del Rosario said in a statement. “Together with the US, these European nations served to confirm our position that there is international support for our country’s lawful rights in our West Philippine Sea as ruled by the Arbitral Tribunal in The Hague.” Duterte is scheduled to participate in the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly for the first time on Sept. 22 at 9 p.m., which will be held via

Duterte:...

mains “humanity’s essential organization,” it is only as effective as memberstates make it. “To make significant changes, we need to be bold. We need the same collective courage that finally made the United Nations a reality 75 years ago. We need to act on long-standing recommendations to improve the Security Council’s composition and working methods; to strengthen the role of the General Assembly; and to streamline the processes and the operations of the UN.” "Indeed, to be ready for the new global normal, it cannot be business as usual for the UN. Let us empower the UN – reform it – to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow,” he said. Duterte said for the Philippines, this

would mean “putting all of the peoples of our united nations at the core of this response.” “While each nation has its own strategy in fighting the pandemic, what the world needs are coordinated international plans and efforts to pursue a common purpose. COVID-19 knows no border. It knows no nationality. It knows no race. It knows no gender. It knows no age. It knows no creed,” he said. While the President welcomed the launch of the UN COVID Response and Recovery Fund, he underscored the need to ensure equal access to a safe and effective vaccine. “Ensuring universal access to anti COVID-19 technologies and products is pivotal in the global pandemic recovery…When the world finds that vac-

vicing Chinese workers of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators or POGO industry. She said these Chinese workers are often the clientele of the ‘pastillas’ scam, in which an extra P10,000 service fee per individual is paid to the bureau and travel agencies to allow them seamless entry into the country. She related that the NBI has already filed a complaint against 20 individuals, composed of 19 BI officers and an owner of a travel agency, who are allegedly involved in the pastillas scheme. However, while welcoming the filing of cases, Hontiveros asserted that her sources, including whistleblower Allison Chiong, have said that these individuals are not the main architects of the ‘pastillas operation. She pressed the NBI to identify and file charges against the “big fish” behind the pastillas scam. “The big fish have not been caught. The small-time should not be the only ones charged while the big-time have remained unscathed,” the senator said. “There was alarming evidence presented in our hearing linking big names in

politics and the government,” said Hontiveros. Former presidential special envoy to China and columnist Ramon Tulfo has tagged former Department of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II as one of the protectors of the alleged masterminds of the pastillas scheme. Appearing the same hearing, Aguirre challenged Tulfo to file cases against him over allegations that he provided protection to the pastillas gang and face him in a proper forum. Insisting on his innocence, Aguirre said has been a member of the Bar for 48 years of good standing. “I have no derogatory records. I graduated valedictorian at San Beda College of Law. In short, my reputation, as well as my family’s good name, is at stake here,” Aguirre told Hontiveros panel. “You have absolutely no right to use his august body to malign and discredit me or bring dishonor to my family,” he also said. Aguirre said the allegations against him by Tulfo were fueled by personal vendetta and dirty politics.

“Similarly, not an iota of evidence was presented during the previous hearings conducted by this committee linking me to the pastillas scheme. Even Mr. Allison Chong, the alleged whistleblower, never once mentioned my name in the entire proceedings. It was only Mr. Tulfo who repeatedly mentioned my name sans any concrete evidence,” Aguirre said. Senator Franklin Drilon said said Capiral’s involvement in the pastillas scheme gave credence to Chiong’s allegations that those who were not charged could in fact be guilty because of a cover-up. “He (Capiral) was the one given the task fo investigating the pastillas scam,” Drilon said. Drilon congratulated the NBI for arresting one of its own. “This is really shocking,” he said. “I... propose to the committee that we strongly recommend a top-to-bottom reorganization of the BI, because, apparently, after the committee unearthed this and after the investigation was conducted, [the corruption continued]. Worse, there is already a cover up,” Drilon said.

tors and live events will be allowed, said Lopez. Meanwhile, a group of doctors and businessmen are recommending preventive healthcare and the gradual lifting of COVID-19 lockdowns in the country, one of its members said on Tuesday. The Concerned Doctors and Citizens of the Philippines (CDC-PH) last week launched the #FlattenTheFear campaign, which urges the government to end the lockdowns and promote the intake of proper nutrition to boost one's immune system. According to Dr. Joel Lopez, prevention or early treatment of virus patients will "actually help ease the burden in the hospitals."

Local...

She said after watching the regular Monday press briefings, she could not help but conclude that it was not enough to say that there are enough hospital beds and funeral parlors, and that we all need to wait for a vaccine to arrive. She said there are other ways to address COVID-19, apart from wearing a face mask and waiting for a vaccine: suppressing the pandemic by means of medical and non-medical interventions; overcoming humanitarian emergencies like poverty, hunger, unemployment, and mental distress caused by the pandemic; restructuring public and private finances in the wake of the pandemic, and rebuilding the economy in an inclusive, resilient and sustainable way. Willie Casas and Rio N. Araja

ficials, provides that public officials and employees and their families “shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income” and that “they should not indulge in extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth in any form.” Martires commented on lifestyle checks a few weeks after he restricted public access to SALNs of government employees filed with theOmbudsman. “Why should we be so concerned? Why judge somebody who bought a BMW although his house has no parking space? Why should be we be so concerned about the lives of others so long as they do not steal?” he said. “We have to redefine what is living beyond your means. What is simple living to me may not be simple living to you or anyone,” Martires stressed. RA 6713 also mandates disclosure of SALNs to the public at a certain period of time, and that the requesting party shoulders the cost of reproduction and mailing of the SALN copies. But Martires said a SALN does not have use in the prosecution of a graft case.

Palace:...

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has brought relief and hope to so many countries and peoples around the world, it now finds itself straddled by a virus that has taken many lives and wrecked economies and social order. We are at a crossroads—how we address COVID-19 will define our future,” the President said. “We will need to ask hard and fundamental questions about the vision and mission that the United Nations conceptualized 75 years ago. We need to ask ourselves whether or not we have remained true and faithful to the United Nations’ principles and ideals.” The President said while the UN re-

NBI... From A1

Hontiveros during a hearing of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality. “Is it confirmed that the head of the NBI legal assistance bureau, Joshua Paul Capiral, was arrested last night (Monday) for receiving bribes from members of the pastillas gang in exchange for their exclusion from charges?” Hontiveros asked Francisco. Francisco answered “yes” and said she verified that information from an official of the NBI Legal Service. She also said Capiral was nabbed in an entrapment operation. Francisco futher told the Senate panel that a complaint will be filed against Capiral before the Department of Justice. “For the sake of our women and children, the masterminds of this ‘pastillas’ scam must be put behind bars,” said Hontiveros. Hontiveros noted that the pastillas scam has given rise to prostitution of trafficked women who were found to be ser-

DTI... From A1

All establishments that have reopened and are now reopening are reminded to take to heart and follow religiously, all the health protocols issued for the guided restart of businesses. With the shift to MGCQ, diners and other essential establishments may operate at 50 percent capacity. Once additional precautionary measures are established by the restaurants and other establishments like acrylic dividers and wider space the establishment may operate beyond 50 percent capacity. Under MGCQ, tourism, tour opera-

Ombudsman... From A1

The former Supreme Court justice also floated the idea of just abolishing the body, as he said a shortage in witnesses against corrupt officials has stumped investigations by the Office of the Ombudsman. “When I assumed office, I suspended the conduct of lifestyle checks because I have long doubted the provision of the law about it. I want to propose to Congress the amendments to Republic Act 6713 because the provisions there, malabo (are hazy), defies logic,” Martires said. “Why did I stop it? What is living beyond your means? The one earning P50,000 a month, lives in a small house, was able to save, bought a BMW on a promo at zero interest, with installment payments he can easily pay, is he living beyond his means? I don’t think so. What he has are distorted values and distorted priorities,” he added. RA 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Of-

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The DOH reported 450 new recoveries, bringing to 230,643 the number of patients that have recovered from the disease. There are 56,097 active cases of COVID-19. Of this number, 86.4 percent are mild, 9.2 percent asymptomatic, 1.3 percent are severe, and 3.1 percent are critical. Pesticide won’t work, Robredo says Vice President Leni Robredo chided President Rodrigo Duterte in a Facebook post, saying the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be solved by spraying pesticide over the country as the Chief Executive said.

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However, Roque said even if Duterte wanted the term-sharing agreementto be honored, he could not do anything if the “supermajority” of the lawmakers wanted Cayetano to stay as House Speaker. “He’s hoping they would honor their term-sharing deal but if congressman Lord Allan doesn’t have the numbers, he can’t do anything,” Roque said in a mix of Filipino and English. Roque said the fate of the next House speaker will depend on the decision of the individual members of the House of Representatives. Even as Cayetano on Tuesday accused him of masterminding efforts to oust him as House leader, Velasco said in a statement that he has kept silent “during the duration of the Gentleman’s agreement in deference and respect to the sitting Speaker.” “My silence does not mean I am disinterested, nor I have turned my back on the covenant,” said Velasco, who also posted his statement on his Face-

cine, access to it must not be denied nor withheld. It should be made available to all, rich and poor nations alike, as a matter of policy.” “The Philippines joins our partners in the ASEAN and the Non-Aligned Movement in raising our collective voice: the COVID-19 vaccine must be considered a global public good. Let us be clear on this,” he said. He also urged the UNGA to ensure that the World Health Organization has enough resources and policy space to address the pandemic more quickly and more efficiently. “We need a WHO that is quick to coordinate and quicker to respond. The Philippines will do its part in the pooling of global resources. Our health workers are among the best,” Duterte added.

book page. “’Mum on issues’ means I just don’t want to call attention to myself. Being party to the term-sharing agreement, one does not and should not seek to compete with the current Speaker as a gentleman’s agreement is in force. We will have our turn at the right time,” the Marinduque solon said. Velasco said that since he became a lawmaker, “I have worked quietly, away from publicity, to support this Administration and help accomplish the legislative agenda of President Duterte to improve the lives of the Filipino people.” “When both parties finally honor the agreement, I will show my colleagues the kind of leadership I espouse. Thereafter, at the end of my term, my peers can then be the judge of my loyal service to God, to the President, and ultimately, to the Filipino people,” he said. In an interview over ABS-CBN News Channel on Tuesday, Deputy Speaker and Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte said the supermajority of congressmen want Cayetano to continue instead of letting Velasco take over. Villafuerte said he believed that

President... From A1

over disorder, of amity over ambition. This­—as it should—is the majesty of the law,” Duterte added. It was a complete turnaround from the earlier pronouncement of his spokesman, Harry Roque, who said bringing up the sea row before the UNGA was unrealistic and tantamount to black propaganda. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom earlier submitted a note verbale to the UN to assert the arbitral ruling, calling on all claimants to resolve their disputes peacefully. Meanwhile, Duterte called the attention of UN member-states on rising geopolitical tensions amid the pandemic. “Escalating tensions benefit no one. New flashpoints heighten fears and tend to tear peoples apart. When elephants fight, it is the grass that gets trampled flat,” he said. “Given the size and military might of the contenders, we can only imagine and be aghast at the terrible toll on human life and property that shall be inflicted if the ‘word war’ deteriorates into a real war of nuclear weapons and missiles.” “I therefore call on the stakeholders in the South China Sea, the Korean Peninsula, the Middle East and Africa: if we cannot be friends as yet then in God’s name, let us not hate each other too much. I heard it once said, and I say it to myself in complete agreement,” the President said. Joyce Pangco Panares

Rody:... From A1

and mechanisms of a democratic country and a popularly elected government which in its last two years, still enjoy the same widespread approval and support,” he said. “These detractors pass themselves off as human rights advocates while preying on the most vulnerable humans; even using children as soldiers or human shields in encounters. Even schools are not spared from their malevolence and antigovernment propaganda. They hide their misdeeds under the blanket of human rights but the blood oozes through.” “To move forward, open dialogue and constructive engagement with the United Nations is the key. But these must be done in full respect of the principles of objectivity, noninterference, non-selectivity and genuine dialogue. These are the fundamental bases for productive international cooperation on human rights,” the President added. Last month, at least 62 local and international civil society groups called on the UN Human Rights Council to establish an independent body to investigate the killings and other human rights violations in the Philippines. “[W]e urge you to actively work towards the adoption of a resolution establishing an independent international investigative mechanism on extrajudicial executions and other human rights violations committed in the Philippines since 2016,” the groups said in their letter to the UNHRC dated Aug. 27. In June, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet released a report on the "widespread and systematic" killings in the government's war on drugs. Bachelet said the anti-drug campaign “is being carried out without due regard for the rule of law, due process, and the human rights of people who may be using or selling drugs.” Joyce Pangco Panares

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“To make it even clearer: When Viet fishermen poach in our EEZ though close to the features they claim, we arrest them and let them go in the spirit of amity, because VIETNAM IS NOT TRYING TO TAKE WHAT'S OURS. “So Carpio is 1,000-percent correct: Our only conflict in the SCS/WPS [South China Sea/West Philippine Sea] is with China. “SO ANY SUGGESTION THAT WE ARE AS MUCH IN CONFLICT WITH the other claimants of features they had taken well before UNCLOS was adopted to confer EEZs IS PURE BULLSHET AND PATHETIC, TRYING TO EXCUSE SOFT-PEDALING APPROACH TO YIELDING WHAT'S OURS. NO WAY HOSAY!!” China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan have competing claims in the South China Sea. The Philippines calls the part of the South China Sea it claims as the West Philippine Sea. In 2016, an International arbitration court ruled that China's sweeping claims over almost the entire South China Sea has no legal basis. But Beijing disagreed and disregarded the landmark decision. At a House budget hearing on Monday, Locsin said there was no need to file diplomatic protests against the other claimants in the South China Sea that had no active conflicts with the Philippines. Manila has filed several diplomatic protests against Beijing this year for declaring portions of Philippine territory as part of a Chinese province and for naming some features in the Kalayaan Island Group.

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Gov’t asked to heed EU Parliament’s call on tariff exemptions By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Management Association of the Philippines urged the government to heed the call of the European Parliament to revoke the country’s exports tariff exemptions seriously as it will result in dire consequences on the country’s economy. “Our economy will suffer more damage, especially given the contraction we are already experiencing with the pandemic,” MAP president Francis Lim said in a statement. “Our government should not take the matter lightly for the sake of our people. We hope it will be discussed and addressed by both parties in a mutually satisfactory manner,” he added. In a resolution dated September 17, the EU Parliament asked the EU Commission to temporarily withdraw the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) of the Philippines, citing human rights violations. Under the GSP+, a mechanism that gives developing countries the privilege of exporting zero-duty merchandise to EU-member states, some of Philippine exports to Europe are benefiting from tariff breaks. In the Philippines, the GSP+ covers 6,274 locally made products. On Friday, however, Malacañang dared the EU Parliament to make good on their threat to revoke the tariff-free status of some Philippine exports. According to Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, the government cannot do anything if the European Commission heed the call of the European Parliament to slap economic sanctions on the Philippines. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, meanwhile, shrugged off the Parliament’s resolution.

ROAD ACCIDENT. A cement mixer truck fell on its side and crushed the hood of a car after it figured in an accident at the corner of 10th Avenue and A. De Jesus St., in Caloocan City on Tuesday midnight. The female driver of the car with her two children sustained injuries and were immediately brought to a nearby hospital for treatment. Norman Cruz/Andrew Rabulan

Pass DDR bill now, Senate urged T By Maricel V. Cruz

INGOG party-list Rep Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and House Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez on Tuesday appealed to Senate leadership to expedite the approval of the proposed Department Disaster Resilience. The Romualdezes, the principal authors of House Bill 5989, issued the call after the House of Representatives, voted 241-7 to pass the Disaster Resilience Act on third and final reading in its plenary

session Monday. “We appeal to the Senate to expedite the passage of this measure that would institutionalize the cohesive, and comprehensive framework for disaster prepared-

ness, prevention and mitigation, and response in our country,” the Romualdez couple said. “We look forward to collaborating with them on this crucial piece of legislation for the welfare and safety of Filipinos,” Romualdez added. “We are confident that the Senate is one with our goal to pass this bill into law this year.” Several bills on DDR are still pending before the Senate Committees on National Defense and Security and Peace, Unification andReconciliation. The Romualdezes also thanked the

House leadership for its unwavering commitment to pass the Duterte administration’s priority bills as spelled-out in the President’s State of the Nation Address. “We thank Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, Deputy Speakers, chairmen and our dedicated colleagues for passing this priority legislation of President Rodrigo Duterte. We are a step closer to truly protecting the lives of our citizens in times of disasters not just in a reactionary way, but in a proactive, long-term, and sustainable approach,” the Romualdezes said.

GMA told to pay, reinstate 30 workers By Rey Requejo THE Supreme Court has ordered GMA Network, Inc. to reinstate 30 cameramen and assistant cameramen and pay their back wages, allowances, and other benefits from the time of their illegal dismissal in 2013 up to the time of their actual reinstatement. In a decision penned by Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, the SC’s Third Division declared petitioners as regular employees of GMA, as it ordered the media network to pay each of the petitioners’ attorney’s fee equivalent to 10 percent of total monetary award accruing to each of them. The amounts due to each petitioner shall bear legal interest at the rate of six percent per annum, to be computed from finality of Court’s decision until full pay-

CLEAN-UP DAY. DENR Sec Roy Cimatu (3rd from left) led the Observance of International Coastal Clean-Up Day, with temporary opening of White Sand Beach , a portion of Manila Bay coastline near the Us Embassy. Photo shows Cimatu with special guests MYC Commodore Robert Lim Joseph, Jr., DAR Secretary William Dar, Cavite Rep. Elipidio Barzaga, Jr., CHED Chair Prospero de Vera, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, DSWD Sec Rolando Bautista and Labor Sec Silvestre Bello, Jr.

Imee: End commercialization of state schools By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Imee Marcos yesterday called on authorities to end the commercialization of state colleges and universities that has allowed foreign students to enjoy the same benefits reserved for Filipino state scholars. Marcos said enrollment quotas for foreign students were preventing more Filipinos from availing of governmentfunded college education, particularly in expensive medical courses. “Let’s take care of Filipinos first. Our

taxes must support our future Filipino doctors, especially amid this enduring pandemic,” Marcos said. “Our efforts to ratchet up our supply of doctors may be lost entirely and merely expended on foreigners,” Marcos added, saying that the Senate was on the verge of enacting legislation on expanding medical scholarship, known as the ‘Doktor Para Sa Bayan’ bill. On the other hand, Senator Sonny Angara urged the Commission on Higher Education and the state universities and

colleges to keep Filipino graduates in the Philippines. “It is about time the government focuses on keeping Filipino talents here in the country instead of constantly losing them to overseas headhunters,” said Angara. Meanwhile, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go also exhorted CHEd and SUCs administrators to ensure the safety and well-being of their students and personnel as the country’s education system adjusts to the adverse effects of the ongoing health crisis caused by the

Troopers seize terrorists’ lair in Sulu THE Joint Task Force Sulu said government troops had overtaken a suspected lair of Mundi Sawadjaan in Indanan, Sulu on Tuesday morning. According to Colonel Antonio Bautista, commander of the 1101st Brigade, the JTF Sulu reported that the site was where Sawadjaan and more or less 40 local terrorists hid for almost three days. He said the military seized some personal belongings and food in the area. Sawadjaan is suspected to be the mastermind of the twin explosions that killed 15 individuals and hurt more than 70 others in Jolo town last August 24. Troopers are now pursuing Sawad-

NAIA smoking areas ordered shut By Joel E. Zurbano THE Manila International Airport Authority has ordered a temporary closure of all smoking areas in all terminals of Ninoy Aquino International Airport to further prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease. “In line with the directives of the National Government to restrain the spread of COVID-19, please be advised that MIAA will implement a temporary closure of all smoking areas within the NAIA terminal,” the MIAA management said in a statement. “As smoking demands the individual to remove the required face mask and face shield, and also disobey the physical distancing measures of persons gathering in one area, this temporary ban serves a reminder to all for strict compliance with the standard health protocols,” it added. The Department of Health had explained that smokers, whose immune systems are already compromised, are likely to be more susceptible to COVID-19. It stated that the act of smoking means

that fingers (and possibly contaminated cigarettes) are in contact with lips which increases the possibility of transmission of virus from hand to mouth. Smokers may also have lung disease or reduced lung capacity which would greatly increase risk of serious illness, said the DOH, citing World Health Organization data indicating that conditions that increase oxygen needs or reduce the ability of the body to use it properly will put patients at higher risk of the consequences of bilateral viral pneumonia. MIAA general manager Eddie Monreal recently formed a team and established a COVID-19 hotline aimed at ensuring proper enforcement of safety measures imposed by the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19. “The government is making efforts to lessen the unwanted impact of the pandemic in our economy. Being a vital part of the aviation industry, airport must keep its operations going. Our employees are essential to our operations and the best we can do is give them a safe workplace,” said Monreal.

ment, the SC said. The tribunal remanded the case to the Labor Arbiter for the computation of the back wages and other monetary awards due to petitioners. In its ruling promulgated on July 13, 2020, the high court held that only casual employees performing work that is neither necessary nor desirable to the usual business and trade of the employer are required to render at least one year of service to attain regular status. However, employees who perform functions which are necessary and desirable to the usual business and trade of the employer attain regular status from the time of engagement. In the case at bar, petitioners were hired between 2005 and 2011 and were all dismissed in May 2013.

jaan and his men, who, according to the Western Mindanao Command is still in Sulu contrary to earlier reports that he is in Zamboanga province. “We are employing the full force of JTF Sulu’s military assets to track down the group of Mundi Sawadjaan,” JTF Sulu commander Brigadier General William Gonzales said. “We are winning in our peace and development campaign in the island of Sulu; in due time, the dwindling number of the terror group will surely be decimated with the active cooperation and support of the governor and municipal mayors,” he added.

DAR chief cites gains on zero-backlog bid

By Rio N. Araja

CAR-FREE. Cyclists encourage motorists to ride bikes in celebration of the World Car Free Day on Tuesday at the Mehan Garden in Manila. The event promotes walking, cycling, and reduction of car use to reduce air pollution. Norman Cruz

DESPITE the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Department of Agrarian Reform has performed its job well. “The DAR implementation of a swift and efficient agrarian justice delivery program is on the right track with the help of the department’s zero-backlog campaign,” Secretary John Castriciones said. Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Luis Meinrado Pañgulayan said President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11494 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Law that provides the condonation of the interest payment and restructures the principal obligation of agrarian reform beneficiaries. Undersecretary for Support Services Office Emily Padilla said her office has started the Project RRR (Rescue food, Redistribute it to the poor and Reduce Hunger) in partnership with Caritas Manila to implement a pro-poor program to mitigate hunger to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

Zambales students get P980k grants CLARK FREEPORT—Some 28 students from San Marcelino, Zambales received scholarship grants and financial assistance worth P980,000 from the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) through its Corporate Social Responsibility Project on education. CDC President and CEO Noel Manankil handed the check to representatives of different communities, mostly members of the Indigenous People during simple rites at the Clark Skills and Training Center here Monday. In his speech, Manankil expressed elation over the state-owned firm’s partnership with the upland communities of Zambales in supporting deserving students. Manankil said the Freeport might also offer career opportunities to students should they continue to excel in their studies. “You have to take this opportunity and treasure it and make sure that you finish your courses. When you finish, there will always be an opportunity for you especially here in Clark,” he added. The student-beneficiaries were the second batch of recipients granted assistance through the CSR-educational program of CDC. Last month, 28 students from Nueva Ecija also benefitted from the same grant. Manankil signed a MOA with 14 barangay chairmen from San Marcelino town, with CDC Director Ana Liza Peralta and CDC Assistant Vice President for External Affairs Rommel Narciso as witnesses. The CDC top executive turned over the checks which will cover the miscellaneous expenses of underprivileged students who reside in barangays San Isidro, Buhawen, Burgos, Consuelo Norte, Consuelo Sur, La Paz, Laoag, Linasin, Linusungan, Lucero, Nagbunga, Rabanes, San Guillermo, and Santa Fe. San Marcelino, Zambales Association of Barangay Captains President Romeo Jalasco and village chief Eddie Domingo, also signatories to the MOA, were present and received the checks for the students. San Marcelino has 18 villages. Also present in the event were CDC Vice President for Administration and Finance Mariza Mandocdoc, CDC Assistant Vice President for Administration Zoraida Camello and CDC- Communications Division Manager Anthony Emmanuel Tulabut. Jess Malabanan

IN BRIEF Manila to implement schools’ new normal THE Manila Health Department Division of School Health Services will be implementing the “Online Co-Ed (Consultation and Education) for Manila Public Schools” as the “New Normal” in public school education for elementary and high schools in the city. During a meeting with the Division of School Health Services, Acting City Health Officer Dr. Arnold Pangan, RSW, emphasized the new system with its objective “to provide online consultation and education to our public Elementary and High school students within the city of Manila.” The proposal was made by the MHD School Health Services Division headed by its chief Dr. Ervin Paz Dela Rosa, CFP, MPM. “Public schools will open on October 5. Based on this, Dr. Ervin submitted a proposal on online consultation and education. This is only for public elementary and high schools, for a total of 107 public schools in Manila,” said Pangan. Among the personnel involved in the program are MHD employees from the Division of School Health Services and the 47 health centers. Willie Casas

Villar distributes face shields SENATOR Cynthia Villar initiated the distribution of face shields to Las Pinas residents and workers to enhance their protection against the new coronavirus disease. Villar sourced more than 6,000 face shields and with the help of barangay leaders and community volunteers, distributed the personal protective equipment to all 20 barangays of Las Pinas City and nearby barangays of Cavite. Employees, farm workers, biomen, street sweepers, waste collectors, traffic aides, barangay tanod and policemen also received face shields from the senator. “As we ease quarantine restrictions, we should always remind the people to wear face masks and face shields as well as to practice physical distancing and hand hygiene. These PPEs, which are now available and affordable, will protect our people as they move around the community and earn a living for their families,” Villar said. Villar also noted that the wearing of face shields in addition to face masks was now part of the strategy to significantly reduce transmission of COVID-19 in the community.

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

FOR ZAMBALES STUDENTS. Expanding the reach of its CSR projects to other provinces and promoting inclusive development, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) inked a memorandum of agreement with 14 barangays in San Marcelino, Zambales for a scholarship grant and financial assistance of 28 deserving students. CDC President and CEO Noel F. Manankil (2nd from right) leads the signing with CDC Director Ana Liza Peralta (3rd from right) and CDC Assistant Vice President for External Affairs Rommel Narciso (extreme right). Also present are San Marcelino, Zambales Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) President Romeo Jalasco and Brgy. Chairman Eddie Domingo. CDC-CD Photo

Cyber-libel case filed vs Tulfo By Jess Malabanan

S

AN SIMON, Pampanga—Television news anchor Erwin Tulfo will have his days in court answering criminal offense as seven counts of cyber-libel case were filed by a former councilman of this town who was mistakenly identified as “cruel Chinese owner of the Real Steel Corporation” in one of his social media posts.

Melchor Santillan Tayag, of Barangay San Agustin formally filed the charges before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor at the City of San Fernando, saying

Tulfo’s post in the social media on separate occasions had maligned “my good name as a former public servant and a private businessman.”

“I was described as a Chinese national in one of the social media posts with caption ‘Chinese national pinipilit ang mga empleyado magshabu, ginagawang target practice at binubugbog.’”stated Tayag in his complaint affidavit filed before the prosecutor’s office. Tayag’s complaints were received by Associate Provincial Prosecutor and Investigating Prosecutor Chito Pantaleon late Tuesday afternoon. This developed as Real Steel Corporation management was preparing separate multiple counts of cyber-libel against Tulfo and a certain Joey Gumana, the alleged source of information peddled to the news anchor.

Lawyer Jose Mari Lacas, legal counsel of RSC, said pieces of evidence had been gathered against the duo “who were responsible behind the lies and baseless accusations posted on social media against the steel manufacturing industry.” “Tulfo’s multiple posts including maltreatment and other accusations against the owner of RSC have been found to be baseless and false,” said Lacas. Tulfo, in his Sept 10 and 11 posts on Facebook, said some of the employees at RSC were being maltreated and were made as target practice by Chinese owner and forced to sniff shabu before reporting to work.

QC coronavirus cases nosedive

HOSPITAL DONATION.

In support of the health campaign of the Batangas Provincial Hospital, Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI), and Pilipinas Shell recently turned over an ultrasound machine coursed through the Office of Senator Bong Go through its Project Malasakit Center, in partnership with the Batangas Governor’s office, and the Provincial Hospital. Present are (from left) Dr. Rozvilinda Ozaeta, Batangas Provincial Health Officer; Serge Bernal, Pilipinas Shell Vice President for External and Government Relations; Gelo Villar, Chief of Staff of the Office of Senator Bong Go; Dr. Jose Jessie Villanueva, Batangas Provincial Hospital Chief and Malasakit Center Officer; Librado “Levi” Dimaunahan, Provincial Administrator representing Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas; and Pauline Paguia, representing Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc.

By Rio N. Araja QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte, citing a latest report from the University of the Philippines-OCTA Research team, said Tuesday the city had maintained a significant decline in the daily new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case for the fourth straight week. The OCTA Research report indicated that the number of daily new cases based on onset, per data from the Department of Health, dropped from 438 between Aug. 8 and Aug. 14 to 334 on Aug. 15 to Aug. 21. From Aug. 22-28, the number of daily new cases plunged further to 288, 250 from Aug. 29 to Sept. 4 and 196 from Sept. 5 to Sept. 11. The figures were even lower based on the data from the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, going from 205 last Aug. 11 to Aug. 17 to 102 from Sept. 8 to Sept. 14. “In a span of one month, we have managed to reduce the number of daily cases by 50 percent. This only shows that our efforts to control the spread of the virus are working,” Belmonte said. “However, we should not be that complacent. We continue to be cautious so we could prevent the spread of the virus, especially in public places, at home and in workplaces,” she added. The research group noted another drop in the reproduction number or in the movement of the virus from 0.92 on Aug. 31 to Sept. 6 to 0.79 last week, which was lower compared to the reproduction number of the National Capital Region and the whole country. Reproduction number indicates how contagious an infectious disease is and its reproduction number as well, and that it also tells the average number of people who would contract a contagious disease from an infected person.

AID FOR STRANDED PERSONS. Alsons Power

Group’s Sindangan ZamboRiver Power Corporation (SZPC) provides essential food items to more than 70 returning residents of the municipality of Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte Siayan Mayor Joesecor S. Gepolongca (7th the right) receives the goods—100 25kilo sacks of rice, around 2,000 assorted canned goods, and other food items—from SZPC employees led by Community Relations head Llewellyn R. Lisondra (7th from left).

Mallari gets Gawad Filipino Award BALANGA CITY, Bataan— Bataan resident and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 4-B Regional Director Wilfredo Mallari has been named Gawad Filipino Awardee by Euro TV Philippines this year. Described as hardworking and inspiring by those he has worked with, the regional di-

rector said in Filipino, “This may be my last award in public service before I retire, and I am overwhelmed by this recognition”. “We are happy to report that we are able to accomplish the ‘Build, Build, Build’ vision of the national government in Mimaropa,there are still ongoing projects,” he said

“He is deserving of the award, he is a model public servant. Hoping he could still continue his service even after retiring”, DPWH Mimaropa employee Mary Grace Bautista said. Mallari has the distinction of being the first Bataeno to become regional director of Wilfredo Mallari DPWH. Butch Gunio

DENR to LGUs: Environmental frontliners must be safe THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Tuesday advised local government units that the safety of environmental frontliners is a must amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. “Environment workers, particularly garbage collectors, have been classified as essential workers as they work tirelessly to help protect public health and contain the spread of the virus by disposing

of everything from household to health care wastes,” Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and LGUs Concerns Benny Antiporda said. He told local officials to ensure the health and safety of environmental frontliners, particularly garbage collectors and estero rangers. The agency recently conducted a webinar among environment officers of various LGUs in the National Capital Re-

gion on the proper handling of solid and hazardous wastes during the COVID-19 crisis. “This initiative by the DENR-NCR office is a welcome effort to make sure that we can inform the public about how to properly sanitize and disinfect our surroundings, especially during this time of a health crisis when cleanliness is a must to protect everyone from the virus,” Antiporda said. Rio N. Araja

Alsons aids stranded residents of Siayan THE Alsons Power Group’s Sindangan Zambo-River Power Corporation provided essential food items to more than 70 returning residents of the municipality of Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte who had until recently been stranded in Metro Manila and other parts of the country. In a statement, SZPC said it was developing a 22 mega-watt hydro power project along the Sindangan River, divided into a 15 MW run of river hydroelectric power plant in the Municipality of Siayan and another 7 MW plant in the Municipality of Dumingag.

The project is expected to begin construction in 2021 and begin operations in 2023. Siayan Municipal Mayor Joesecor Gepolongca received the goods consisting of 100 25kg. sacks of rice, around 2000 assorted canned goods, and other food items from SZPC employees led by Community Relations head Llewellyn Lisondra. Alsons Power- Mindanao’s first private sector power generator plans to develop at least seven more run of river hydro power facilities in different parts of Mindanao and Negros Occidental.

this episo ber 5, but many private learning instituoing to the extent all over again in the run-up to the Novem- campaigns but more intensely against the tions have already started the school year. uld not have hap- ber elections, with the Democrats and a Trump organization. priceless. Through a mix of so-called synchronous But experts say Moscow is the adversary r help. In fact, as number of US security experts insisting d have been sim- that the Russian hackers are back in the that worries them the most, given Russia’s and asynchronous methods—where the stulengthy track record. ring the internal In the real wo dents and teacher are present all at the same An expert, John Hultquist, senior execuwhich has seen time, and where they perform other tasks on cially as the pub Adelle Chu tive of the cybersecurity firm FireEye, has en masse. They are here to weeks, the situat Chua, Editor their own, respectively—educators are try- Adelle raised alarm bells over the Russian hackers t should serve as Adelledo Chua, Editor Adelle Chua,mst.daydesk@ Editor Children ing to make with available technologymst.daydesk@gmail.com to ferent. stay. noting that while multiple cyber-espionage or banks. This is mst.daydesk@gmail.com mst.daydesk@gmail.com reach out to their students and enable them to or functioning WEDNESDAY, 16, 2020 actors have targeted organizations associrnment agencies SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 16, 2020 may not be an id learn, notwithstandingWEDNESDAY, the great challenges WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2020 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 ated with the upcoming election, the exng essential and learn new thing posed by these untested methods. ncident reminds incumbent president’s corner. 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Hacka common consequence of empire Strontium is widely known as Fancy Bear naStrontium is widely known as Fancy Bear c six months cooped out under a naor APT28 and is believed to operate out of port their tionwide They have with theirwould tools or APT28 and is words believedbut operate of beginning of its jourinvolve theandmost hotly establishment ofJ.A.out didethe cornerlockdown. and not just otherwise have inchildr the cla J.A.of the security orbuilding—and APT28 is believed to contested operate out ofelectorlockdown. would otherwise havecould in the classroom. These O SAY thattrouble the J.A. toby Othe SAY that the would otherwise have in the classroom. Oideal SAY that the Russia’s military intelligence agency, GRU. At a time when almost goveveryone, gov- Russia’s military intelligence agency, GRU. govney toward nation-building. 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This is true for som pause. would beavailable an understatement. HEhabits. Offilives ce the Ombudsman has dealt blow, notfor tosome tial race in favor of then candidate Trump Still, and most insidious hackstice this work habits. 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In No matter how condemnable this inciPublic school are set to reopen on OctoMr.Lessons Martires’Lessons individuals involved in both presidential fact, it remains a key issue against Trump told sored hackers of in China and Iran, targeting then-candidate Donald Trump lingers. 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Much like many facets of our his- of that ideas, andthey technology was tasks ourHultquist, history. Forty eight her requests it, open if a in court An period expert,in John senior execu-of cultures, seen ply cially as thedents public schools a few allcorruption. time, lengthy and where perform other on representative trackheights. record. ansuch inside jobassassination considering the internalyears In the however, real world, and teacher areatpresent at the same lengthy track record. n insidetory job considering the internal In the real world, andhowever, espedents and teacher are present all the same as the of Antonio spurred to unprecedented after, those who have harangued orders its release in relation tobea starkly pendingdiftive of the cybersecurity firm FireEye, has They are here to weeks, the situation could their own, respectively—educators are try- execuAn expert, John Hultquist, senior problems rocking UCPB, which has seen cially as the public schools ope time, and where they perform other tasks on expert, John Hultquist, senior execu- case,time, ems UCPB, has seen brothers and cially as the public schools open in a few Luna, the deathwhich of the Bonifacio and where they perform other tasks on “...Not surprisingly, an eventual disconthrown tons of garbage then Presraised alarm bells over the at Russian hackers An e as rocking or of a request is made through the Children may not have adequate ing totive make do with available technology to ferent. Army commanders. of the cybersecurity firm FireEye, has its top officials resigning en masse. stay. They are here to weeks, the situation could be their own, respectively—educators are trytive of the cybersecurity firm FireEye, has pisofficials resigning en masse. and the mass murders in Samar during ident They are here the situation could be the narrative surrounding Spanish Marcos and thoseto who presided nect inreach noting that while multiple cyber-espionage is their own, field respectively—educators are come try- weeks, Ombudsman’s investigation office from prosperous families to starkly begin dif- s or functioning equipment. The home out to their students and enable them tohackers raised alarm bells over the Russian In Fil-American any this should In 2019, the Human Rights Watch referent. Children may not have raised alarm bells over the Russian hackers any this event, heist should as ing to make do with available technology to the war,heist toserve name a few,serve the asover actors have targeted organizations associcies event, arrival in the Philippines developed as each thestay. country’s fate during those years ferent. Children not have adequate for the purpose a ideal fact-finding may have othermay business interests ing to not make do with place available technology to or may beofan to probe. focus and to with, learn,noting notwithstanding the great challenges stay. thatsecurity while multiple cyber-espionage wake-up callfor not only for noting that while multiple cyber-espionage arrival the flotilla and This the banks. death its iscould ke-up not of only banks. is ofThis ated not withgetthe upcoming election, the ported exand acall or functioning equipment. country went on to construct their own nareach out to their students and enable them to over the fact that more and Someone who requests a copy of an or sources of income. If all these are indithat “State forces and govor functioning equipment. The home T reach to things. their students enable them to learnout new Parents and could be anxposed by these untested methods. actors have targeted organizations associalso for Magellan, regulators, government agencies pertspoints are “most concerned that of the incumbent president’s corner. this more inds regulators, leader, as well as the And eventual actors targeted organizations associ-aofficial’s for government agencies tional have identities. In the practice of national of view, of actualwith accounts may not be an ideal place to learn, notwithstanding the great challenges SALN must present a notarized cated in the SALN—assuming we can still ious about where the next meal may come may not be an ideal place to focus and to fo The teachers themselves are having diflearn, notwithstanding the great challenges ernment-backed paramilitaries continue toexatedupcoming with the election, upcomingthe election, the and other essential Russian military intelligence time around theyexpedition’s are doing joinedand by Chineseandwhat ring companies cluded in theanxshor landing ofcompanies the remaining the ex- letter other doing essential mythwith making, transpired during that period unit..which contra- ated of authority the owner of themethods. have access to them—then we can very learn new things. Parents cou posed by these untested from, even if from they did not have to worry ficult timehistorical adjustingevents to the are new pedemands of posed learn new things. Parents could be by these untested methods. harass, threaten, arbitrarily arrest, and ingranting poses theof greatest threat toAnd the democratand hackers presumably Demopertsconcerned are “mostwith concerned that of the a COVID-19 incumbent corner. this sensitive services. Thereminds incident reminds Duterte imposed one thepresident’s earliest lockship,Iranian Victoria, in Spain under inMagelrused, selected exclusion or inclusion vening their ‘construct’ have been com- And perts are “most that of with thefrom incumbent president’s corner. this ive services. The incident SALN theThe request. Noare requests well appreciate some ident cannot legal iouscontext. about where the next meal about infection. teachers themselves are having a diftheir work.for Sure, they may be teaching ious about where the next meal may come The teachers themselves having a dific out. process.. as this hacking hasby been cratic challenger Joe Biden’s side the proRussian military intelligence unit..which time around they joined Chinese them to double their efforts securing lan’stheir second-in-command, Juan SebasRTUAL by storytellers, in this casehomes, the states, ing Their narrative ifgroup they insist Russian intelligence unit..which time around they are joined by Chinese to double efforts in securing some instances attack and kill political ac-Everybody for inspecting or taking ofdemands the Lifestyle however, are there forBoard downs iningiven the world. Still, even if even itare was the is trying his her best themilitary comfort of their but and there is defiif they did not haveo of the ficult time adjusting to theto new demands of iffrom, from, checks, even they even didber not have to worry ficult time adjusting tophotos theornew of for some the most provocasanctions imposed andand high profile ems, poses the greatest threat to the democratand Iranian hackers presumably inposes Demotiandigital Elcano, has engendered in itsbashing wake systems devices. then told and retold—proselytized, realasresponsible non-debatable has of been scrutinized the greatest threat to the democratand Iranian hackers presumably in Demodigitaltheir systems and devices. SALN shall be allowed. a reason. “Living beyond one’s means” is still be able to learn in this new environnitely nothing comfortable about doing your tivists, environmentalists, community leadabout a COVID-19 infection. world’s longest and strictest, the lockdown their work. Sure, they may be teaching from about a COVID-19 infection. much more as pre tivecratic and aggressive cyber operations of given allly—to two have been from and plain these their work. Sure, they may be Martires teaching from EALITY aAfter trove ofcountries accounts, orgetting otherwise, process.. as this hacking group has been challenger Biden’s side the all, activities seek to comprotheiric respective peoples. found wanting. is not the the only We were hoping thatcomfort Ombudsman not there a fanciful term but a statement of fact his or h ic process.. as this hacking group been cratic challenger Joe Biden’sItJoe side given terlu-all, the activities that seek written tothat comproment. Students will learn their homes, lessons, but work in the same manner forhas many years, Everybody isortrying the of their is defitime.” Trump administration. Everybody is trying his her best to ers, and journalists.” the comfort of their homes, but there is defifailed to contain the pandemic. Thus, the each changing with every narrative. “...One such example of this is the responsible for some of the most provocasanctions imposed and high profile bashing mise digital devices, even entire systems, story to tell. As some noted writers and hasanhadeducators the time to reflect ontohis decision andand that says one’s expenses exceed one’s in- ans responsible for someand ofthen the having most provocasanctions imposed and high profile bashing digital devices, even entire systems, will learn teach better, even decades, to shift to If these latest hacking attempts on othInSuch the case ofnature the Russian operations for oped still be able to learn in this new nitely nothing comfortable about doing your still be able to learn in this new environnitely nothing comfortable about doing your is the of the beast, as we marked difference in the retelling of the academics have been saying lately, the Duterte has vowed to continue his “war tive and aggressive cyber operations of all these two countries have been getting from for financial or state gains or just plain Ten days before Duterte imposed the lockwhether or not th how blatantly it goes against the avowed fight come and all other revenue taken together. tive and aggressive cyber operations of all these two countries have been getting from nancialTrump’s or state gains orthejust plain parents will learn how best they can supaltogether new way of teaching. re-election, reports coming out erwise secure organizations in US soil ackment. Students will learn the work thehesame manner for many years, ment. Students will learn their lessons, work in the sameinmanner for many years, used to say, that accounts ofbecome events orsuch incistory of Ferdinand Magellan’s death. Anmartial law years were not as dark and uttime.” the Trump administration. “gotcha” moments have luSpecifically, if a government official is able for transparency. Unfortunately, has used his time.” the Trump administration. ha” moments have become such luport their children. Nothing prepared us They could have trouble with their tools on drugs” which will be “as relentless and is teach legal depends o on March 2020, there were onlyelector-tonio Pigafetta, the Italian scholar who involve the most hotly contested establishment but of 15, and not just of the securitydown educators learn to teach even and having to shift to an will dents, personal or historical rests educators towill better, and b even decades, anddecades, thenagainst having toholdshift totoandrive useless asRussian these are saying they a BMW on alearn low monthly amortime to perfect hiscomplaining argument thethen If connectivity, these latest hacking attempts on othIn case ofguys the Russian operations for crative, even highly sought and developed for this, so will not help. latest hacking attempts othIn theterly case ofinthe operations for highlywhether sought andthat developed andon with or theyoncould also al race the planet, using as they do chilling the If these Microsoft itself is Russian military ne,noeven in that shortlist fo the day it began.” He wants TWO confirmed cases. At this writing, the will learn how heavily on the story teller. Inorganizations the case of would altogether new way of to teaching. afind detailed journal of be the effective events thetheir want everybody to believe. Like parentswonder will parents learn how best they canbest sup-the altogether new waygovernment of teaching. where that exists—or ing lifestyle checks for officials. secure organizations US soil Trump’s re-election, theavailable, reports coming undertakings in theyears. past few years. HackIn finding our stride, it is best re- tization—we iterwise difficult to at jobsof secure organizations in ofUS soil in Trump’s re-election, the reports coming outin takings in thehave past few Hackmost sophisticated methods it erwise iskeptout hackers targeted 200 US part Inot HAVE been requested to repeat my rea-on It’s pretty basic. the Magellan expedition andand subsequent death penalty, banned under the Constituport their children. Nothing voyage, wrote of how Magellan was electorbedistress conflict situations as Philippines is just the pandemic epicenter in the They could have trouble with their tools buys multiple houses aNothing limited salary “Wealth does translate toaffects corruption,” port their children. prepared us pr alked about PresiThey could havecrisis trouble with their tools involve the most hotly contested electornot justand of the security but of ers are lurking just around the corner andall member that one families using the only available medium of instrucnot farfetched to think thatestablishment thebut same (political parties, think tanks, consultants involve the most hotly contested not of the security establishment ofthe can re lurking just around the corner events thereafter an article written by sieged by natives in Cebu while attemptcountry was at that time, there were missons for my belief that the appointment of for this, so complaining will no that has not significantly increased over the he said before lawmakers at a budget hearing and with connectivity, or they could also al race in using the planet, using as they and do Microsoft itself is that Russian military andthe communities differently. This could should also for this, so complaining will not help. hacking can beinactivated in no be doneaanywhere at any time and against with connectivity, or they and evenoperations the main Democratic fundraising rous tion for crimes, toasbe reimposed for tion. 11-nation ASEAN with total ofRussian 265,888 casal race inmost the planet, they do the Microsoft itself is that military ng operations can be activated no hievements. Now, Raisa Mabayo, ourattacks. Thirdhave Secretary and ing to help Rajah Humabon, a recently takes and low points but there were high years, then that serves as a red flag, a pointTuesday. In fact, he said that the law govIn finding our stride, it is any perceived adversary. Given such an platform) for cyber Microsoft vice azen find it difficult to be effective at their jobs improve our empathy and correct our most sophisticated methods available, it is hackers have targeted 200 US organizations time at all. Indeed, they become part former In finding our stride, In it is to re-cob Meanwhile,methods students are also adjusting to beNational effective atBureau their jobsof Investigation anbest earlier most crimes. sophisticated available, it is to find it difficult hackers have 200 USPhilippines organizations drug at all. Indeed, they have become part es. It quoted is No. 21 inpoints the targeted world. The Vice-Consul inBurt charge of Cultural DiploCatholicized local ruler convert others and celebratory ones as well. erning lifestyle checks is illogical and that he er, on where to look more closely. environment, the security and stability of president Tom has been as sayd to short-sightedness. In doing our best to member that one crisis affect the much-changed demands of schoolwork. using the only available medium of instrucnot farfetched to think that the same can (political parties, think tanks, consultants of everyday life. member that one crisis affects families using the only available medium of instrucfarfetched to thinklove that the same can (political parties, think tanks, consultants notBut eryday life. chief Dante Gierran as president andis chief President should the people the President for macy inthetheinitial Philippine EmbassyoninBiden’s Madislodged Germany yesterday and is barely to Catholicism and loyalty to up Spain. MaBut that would another story. test depression nations and societies as well as the Back integrity to ask to also amend difficult this concept to grasp? ing that failed attempt sys-makes cope, butCongress wetion. should pickit.out the les- Howand They may have grown with technology, and communities differently. T be done anywhere at any time intends and against and even thebe main Democratic fundraising What makes these activities dangerous communities differently. This should be done anywhere at any time and against and even the main Democratic fundraising hat these activities dangerous tion. officer of PhilHealth illegal. thethese wake of so ma drid provides interesting insight andbelow aby toand gellan believed that of2019, force Mabayo’s on the quincentennial standing of and institutions wasan “...specifically targeted takes issueexecutive with the phrase “living beWe areisaghast toimprove hear that words the “drugs war.” Indisplay May twoHe top sons will come handy when this cri- also 23,000 cases No. 20,notes Italy, 288,761. but mostly for his recreation and socialization. any perceived adversary. Given such anthat platform) forcompanies cyber attacks. Microsoft vice iscampaign when these are done in such aplatform) brazen fntial 2020, the Philipour empathy and co any perceived adversary. Given such an Meanwhile, students are adjusting to for cyber attacks. Microsoft vice hen these are done in such a brazen improve our empathy and correct our Meanwhile, students are also adjusting to fresh perspective on how shouldattacks view celebrations be enough to accomplish those to yond posted The Diplomat: of note can as indeed bein easily bywouldToday Russian hackers via we phishing food the Under 1 ofbeRepublic 11223 the COVID one’s and insists that a person are being Act uttered by the sult veryofofficial sis isofmeans” finallythe over. ThatSection wisdom they have to use technology environment, the security and stability president Tom Burt hasundermined been quoted as sayand wayward manner as what allies made itthehandily into the Senate elecenvironment, security and stability of subpresident Tom Burt has been quoted as saywayward manner as campaign’s what happened tohappened short-sightedness. In best doingto ou Secretary Carlos Dominguez says much-changed demands of schoolwork. short-sightedness. In doing our the much-changed demands ofwould schoolwork. its lowest ever inhistory and even teach inFinance our schools and to a“...On click ofMarch a finger Grabe. against the communications ities That fateful decision and his mis16, 2021, we will com- tasks.stitute may only have “distorted values and prioriwhose job it is to champion transparency priceless. (Universal Healthcare Act), upon the cope, recthe interactions and experiences theyintegrity The Departmen and societies asintegrity well as the thatfailed the initial failed attempt on Biden’s UCPB which generations. can unhinge the banking sys-the ing nations and nations societies as well as Duterte’s the ing that initial attempt on Biden’s B16.5-percent which canyounger unhinge the banking sysbut we should also They may have grown up with technology, cope, but we should also pick out the les- o They may have grown up with technology, tions which solidified power “the decisive (lockdown) helped us avert an the In this Mabayo calculation of enemy forces, led by Lapu memorate the 500th anniversary of the conThis, he says, is none of our business. andTrustees accountability in government. We pick ommendation of socialization. the Board ofwill Philand of and companies and ties.” institutions campaign was “...specifically by resulted Or,the to oft-repeated companies providing essential ment willhandy deny th and standing of standing companies institutions campaign was “...specifically targeted bytargeted Or, totem. companies providing essential sons thathandy will Martires’ come whe but mostly for recreation and socialization. sons that come when this cribut mostly for recreation and piece, note—history is Lapu, in Magellan’s death. arrival of Europeans in the Philippines. We agree that wealth does not necesare much alarmed over Mr. base. Longtime aide, Christopher Go, and estimated 1.3 3.5 million infections accordduction. Onandby top of those of note can indeed be easily undermined by the Russian hackers via phishing attacks services such those in to food of note can indeed be easily undermined by the Russian hackers via phishing attacks s and goods services such inasfood Health, the President shall appoint the agensis is finally over. That wisdom showed that alm Today they have to use technology to subsis is finally over. That wisdom would be written theasvictors—which has been Today have to use Mr. technology It is a day that means different things to He was struck in the face by a Mactan sarily equatethey to corruption. Martiresto subdistorted thinking. Because it’s our taxes Davao’s police chief, Ronaldo dela ing togets researchers from ourthe universities. The a click of ascimitar. finger Grabe. against campaign’s communications manufacturing or and inpeople, power and utilitiesdifferent nfacturing in the a warrior click of using aformer finger Grabe. against the campaign’s communications or in quarpower utilities Army commanders. de first rigueur for most a better priceless. stitute thefor interactions and experiences a local After, the priceless. countries and their peoples. president and CEO from thethey Board’s stitute interactions andsimpletons. experiences they should not the takecy’s Filipinos and our well-being that are atadult stake labor here, it force the Human Rights re-Spanish who spearheaded theWe “drug enabled “...To usInto2019, reinforce our health than even counterpoint as far as historical shipsinitially retreated from Cebu. GDP growth drop lockdown the Philippines, that firstWatch con- Rosa, know that non-ex-officio many government members. officials is very much our business. Santa Banana, the

Gierran’s appointment

terte’s failures

TO THE POINT

EMIL JURADO

Y LOPEZ

e’s failures Duterte’s failures Calamity elections Duterte’s failures

Gierran’s appointment is illegal Marcos’ place in history Gierran’s appointment is ille Gierran’s appointment is illegal

ported that “State security forces and govour capacity to do wide- war,” were elected to the Senate. Dela Rosa in recession with system and build upernment-backed This means thatthethe President cannot apThe newest of paramilitaries continue to cluded in the shortlist. Otherwise, Presnamed to head theTO Senate committee spread testing in our communities. Fromarrest, just andwas THE inArmy nomic output of 9 one of the earliest lock- harass, threaten, arbitrarily Duterte imposed Army commanders. point Gierran unless he is a member of the commanders. ident cannot legally appoint you as a mem119,000 to 140, Now, the lockdowns will make half of instances killconpolitical charged ac- In 2019, in the world. Still, even 1,282 if it wasactual the some with investigating police matters ber of the Board of Trustees of PhilHealth, around PCR testsattack perand day In 2019, the Human Rights Watch rethe Human Rights Watch rePOINT cessiondowns in our histhe people poor. and staff, out of t world’s longest and strictest, the lockdown tivists, environmentalists, community lead-ported that “State ported that “State security forces gov-more as president and CEO. security forces and of govwar.” Remittances—a mainstay the andmuch ducted in the last week of journalists.” March, our capacity and the “drug schools which w ers, and failed to contain the pandemic. Thus, ernment-backed paramilitaries to the answer to the question of ernment-backed paramilitaries to continue economy because thatEMIL iscontinue the one that • The Judicial Fund, the basis cluded in the shortlist. Otherwise cluded in theDevelopment shortlist. Otherwise, the Presto contain the communist inDuterte has vowed to continue his “war 4. Failure Ten days whether or not the appointment of Gierran he economy is before ex- Duterte imposed the lockschools have lost inimposed theDuterte first quarter of 2020, 16.5 perTO THE TO THE harass,arbitrarily threaten, arbitrarily arrest, and in depends on whether harass, threaten, arrest, in imposed onerelentless ofbythe earliest lockDuterteon one of lockJURADO fuels consumption—fell by and 4.2 perof the financial benefits of the judiciary; ident cannot legally appoint you ident cannot legally appoint you as a memdrugs” which willthe be earliest “as and is legal his name was down on March 15, 2020, there were only The reasons are surgency and the Muslim separatist moveenrollees. cent. BizNewsAsia cent in on theinthe second quarter, 9 perVIRTUAL downs VIRTUAL instances attack andpercent kill ac- shortlist for the Board instances and kill political ac- political theattack first half. That 4.2 downs theday world. even if itsome wascent the insome the world. Still, even ifStill, it and was the • The andof Gaming berAmusement ofofthe Board of Trustees of P ber ofPhilippine the Board Trustees PhilHealth, in that of Trustees. it began.” Heby wants TWO confirmed cases. At this writing, the inchilling POINT POINT Without ainpenalty, vaccine cent the first half. We are having the IisHAVE tivists, environmentalists, community leadtivists, community leadequivalent to losing billion of It’s Corporation, provides additional The group rep world’s and strictest, the lockdown world’s longest and strictest, thement lockdown been environmentalists, requested to$1.4 repeat my reapretty basic. ction the whole much morewhich as president CEO. much more and asan president and CEO death banned under the ConstituREALITY REALITY Philippines is the pandemic epicenter in the longest Presi- for clearly spelled out in worst recession in our history. sons for myand belief that the appointment of alyour dollar income. ers, and journalists.” ers, journalists.” source of revenue to fund the miscellaneous * * * failed to contain the pandemic. failed to contain the pandemic. Thus, the answer to the question of tion for most crimes, to be reimposed for Thus, the answer to the q 11-nation ASEAN with a total of 265,888 casThe killings of political activists and and staff claim th Now, EMIL EMIL cent -- assuming a forThegeneral use, the About 75 percent of the the economy was former Bureau of Investigation In an earlier column, I suggested that the Is there hope in that bleak scenario? activities of or thenot government; hasNational vowed to continue his “war his “war Duterte has vowed to continue drug crimes. Ten days before Duterte imposed lock- leged Ten days before Duterte imposed theDuterte lockwhether the appointment of Gierran whether orcated not thetoappointment es. It is No. 21 in the world. Philippines the law. them is n NPA leaders have failed to dent the JURADO ch month of lockTONY LOPEZ TONY LOPEZ chief Dante Gierran as president chief President a “jobs policy” in down. Household consumption, Well, Liftbe the which • The Export Processing Authority at- washis But the15, people love President on drugs” which will “aslockdowns relentless and onyes. drugs” which will be and “as relentless and should createJURADO dislodged Germany yesterday and is down barely on shut is legal depends on whether his name is legal depends on to whether March 2020, there were only for down on March 15,the2020, there were only n executive officer of PhilHealth is illegal. the wake of so many jobless people as a rerecession could rage The polic providing three-fourths of GDP, fell by 52-year old communist insurgency. Muslim have proved senseless and produced the the “drugs war.” In May 2019, two top tract investments; 23,000 cases below No. 20, Italy, 288,761. longest and severin foreign that shortlist for shortlist the Board Trustees. chillingtheon chilling the day on it began.” He wants He wants in that forofjobs the Board o the day it began.” hilipTWO confirmed At this writing, thewriting, TWO cases. confirmed cases. At this Under Section 1The of Republic Act 11223 sult ofMARCOS thebeen COVID-19 pandemic. 15.5 percent in Q2 for a 7.8-percent allies made it handily into the Senate elecopposite effect. lockdowns were Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez says has to adopt righ • The Movie and Television review and I HAVE requested to repeat my reaAS haters remembered “the I HAVE been requested to repeat my reaIt’s pretty basic. It’s pretty basic. ver in death penalty, banned under the Constituterrorists are on the warpath marked by a death penalty, banned under the ConstituPhilippines is the pandemic epicenter in the Philippines is the pandemic epicenter in(Universal the previous I talked about Presi-about IN Acolumn previous column Iwell talked Presifor seven months. Healthcare Act), upon the recThe Department of Labor and Employinto decline inwith H1 2020,of according to265,888 MaPRESIDENT Duterte helped has usextended tions which solidified Duterte’s power “the decisiveachievements. (lockdown) an 2021. supposed toforofsave 4,000 people from sons for my belief that the appointment of Classification Board; * * * dark days of Martial Law,” on sons for my belief that the appointment of unless con- dent * * * emplo tion phenomenon—suicide for most crimes, toBoard be reimposed Board of Trustees PhilHealth, and tion most crimes, to beoffor reimposed for 11-nation ASEAN a total 265,888 emergency 11-nation ASEAN with a totalcasof casRodrigo Duterte’s Now, avert Rodrigo achievements. Now, ommendation the Trustees Phil- The ment will deny this, for sure, butSeptember aof survey new bombers. onomic production nila-based Asian Development Bank. the state 1.3 of Duterte’s calamity for one yearaccorduntil base. Longtime aide, Christopher Go, and estimated to 3.5 million infections dying, people who would die anyway, op of • The Coconut Authority toI suggest 21, theyNational went on Bureau theNational usual spree, In anPhilippine earlier In column, I suggested that the former Bureau of his Investigation an earlier column,of drug crimes. crimes. shall appoint the agen- former es. It is No.es. 21 Itinisthe world. Health,drug the President No. 21 inThe the Philippines world. The PNP Philippines showed that almost half ofofbashing theInvestigation country's are hishere failures: are his failures: the Board recommended appointment to the ranks the un tripled its anti-insurgency budget, former police more chief, Ronaldo dela has Unemployment than tripled, Sept, 2021. Please note: That is upThe to Davao’s ing to21, researchers from our universities. quarchief Dante Gierran as president and chief lockdown or no lockdown, because ot be recovered in develop and enhance coconut production President should create a “jobs policy” in chief Dante Gierran as president and chief portraying Marcos as the devil-incarnate. President should create a “jobs cy’s president and CEO from the Board’s But the people love the President for adult labor force of 60 million are jobless. But the people love the President for dislodgedRosa, Germany yesterday and is barely dislodged Germany yesterday and is barely The Philippines’ greatest depression 1. The Philippines’ greatest depression the President. who initially spearheaded the “drug ensothe poverty pr lockdown enabled to reinforce our health from 5.1 average percent indaily April tests 2019 toa17.7 months justusbefore the May 2022 drop eight executive ofare PhilHealth isPhilHealth illegal. most of them already had fataltop dis- two theefforts; wake of so people as a reexecutive officer of illegal. But didofficer not Shakespeare say: “The evil isand themany wakejobless of many jobless peo worrying sign. non-ex-officio members. Santa they the new poor! has grown to23,000 aboutcases 32,000 the “drugs war.” In May 2019, two below No. 20, Italy, 288,761. the “drugs war.” In May 2019, topBanana, 23,000 cases No. 20,Dela Italy,Rosa 288,761. the quarter ofelections 2020, thecapacity PhilipIn the second quarter of 2020, Philipwar,” wereinelected to the Senate. system and build up our tothe do widepercent Aprilbelow 2020 “when lockdowns presidential when we choose withsecond Under Section 1 of Republic Act 11223 Thus, before Gierran can be appointed as eases other than COVID. But several sult of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under Section 1 of Republic Act 11223 many years to com • The Philippine Tourism Authority as one that men do lives after them. The good is oft This means that the President cannot apsult of the COVID-19 pandemic. The newest of the “new poor” are some allies made allies it handily into the Senate elecFinance Secretary Dominguez says most it handily intothe themilitary Senate elec5. Coddling ofmade the police and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez says economy slumped to slumped itsour lowest in From this (August).” economy toever its lowest ever arlos Dominguez named toCarlos head the Senate spread testing in communities. justin was of 9 pine were widespread and at committee their Duterte’s successor. Healthcare Act), uponteachers the point Gierran unless he isare a member the (Universal The Department of Labor Employ119,000 toPresident 140,000 retrenched thousands more people dyingpower orofwill (Universal Healthcare Act), upon the recof the engines serve a source of and revenue; interred with their bones.” Theas Department ofthe Labor an and CEO of recPhilHealth, heto must While Presi tions which solidified Duterte’s “the decisive (lockdown) helped us avert an tions which solidified Duterte’s power “the decisive (lockdown) helped us avert an ountry’s history -a 16.5-percent conthe country’s history -a 16.5-percent concharged with investigating police matters around 1,282 actual PCR tests per day conDuterte has ofemployed more generals, r his- much AddsofDominguez: “Without the lockdown, says ADB. Exports declined by Another year of state calamity strict,” andThis staff,brings outommendation of the than 700 private ommendation ofme the more Board Trustees of Philhow money will this, fordeny sure,through but for a survey die because hunger, malnutrition, and of the Board Trusteesment Phil• of Laws on deny socialized housing asure, bu to ask, my gulay—Is ment will this, base. Longtime aide, Christopher Go, and be first appointed as a member of the Board estimated 1.3 to 3.5 million infections accordbase. Longtime aide, Christopher Go, and lawalmost 2, estimated to 3.5 million infections accordon in traction economic production. OnMarch, top of thepercent “drug 1.3 war.” ducted incontinuing the last weekproduction. of our capacity economic On top of and schools which will remain closed.shall These 21.4 in the first half. means and reguHealth, President shall appoint the agenshowed thatissuances almost from half ofBayanihan the half country's Health, the President appoint the agendiseases spawned by the lockdowns. series of legal the funding, showed that of the Marcosthe a heel or a hero? the military and the police, than any the rate of infections and deaths have economies, theirinoftherestrictions former police chief, Ronaldo dela ingquarto researchers from our could universities. The from Davao’s former police chief, Ronaldo dela 4.ing Failure to contain the communist in-Davao’s to researchers from our universities. The contraction first in quaris7-percent ex- the 0.7-percent the first of Trustees. schools have lost income because of lack of project are only lations. Pricescontraction prime commodities, cy’s president and CEO from the Board’s adult labor force of 60 million are jobless. cy’s president and CEO from the Board’s Said acting Economic Planning Secof loans; adult labor force of 60 million sa It depends. If you look at his remarka- mortgage and collection other president before him.are More 45 TheKendrick reasons been much worse. latest suggest that Rosa, who initially spearheaded the “drugthan surgency and the Muslim movelockdown enabled usdata to reinforce health Rosa, who initially spearheaded thenon-ex-officio “drug massively, anyway. enrollees. lockdown enabled usseparatist toourreinforce our health sAsia 20, theterespecially 16.5 -percent GDP growth drop 2020, the rice, 16.5 -percent GDP growth drop corn, and fish, will be The members. Santa Banana, they are the new poor! What is/are the legal requirements before non-ex-officio members. retary Karl Chua: viate the Santa Banana, they arepeople’s the new p • All the specialty hospitals—the Philipble achievements and good performance, Without alittle vaccine ment were elected tooccupy theelected Senate. Rosa The means group representing these cannot teachersapbuild upand ourbuild capacity tocases do wide- star-rank whole war,” were toDela the Senate. Rosa system up our capacity towar,” do widethe country is now recession officers cabinet and Dela civilover system 1laws, percent of all COVID-19 means the country is anow inwith recession withand clearly spelled out in controlled. In infact, under current This that the President es stimulus package The newest of thenewest “new poor” are some This means that the President cannot ap“No one anticipated that the COVID The of the “new poor pine Heart Center, Lunch Center, National he would be a hero. For those, however, Gierran can be appointed as a member of What is essent The of political activists and al-From and staff claimunless that the P500 million allowas named to in head the Senate committee ing a first Mr. President, spread testing inkillings our communities. Fromlift just was named to head the Senate committee semester drop in economic output of 9 spread testing in our communities. just for general use, the semester drop in economic output of 9 point Gierran he is a member of the the price of anything, and its supply, can 119,000 to 140,000 retrenched teachers point Gierran unless he is a member of the pandemic will [strike] the global ian positions the government. 119,000 to 140,000 retrenched Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine who envy his ingenuity, vision and forein the country are severe or critical. Our morwhether it is actualthe law. cated to them is not enough. leged NPA leaders have failed to dent the the Board of Trustees? lockterm jobsmore policy with investigating police matters around actual PCR actual tests per day con-per charged charged investigating nt. It is thecontrolled worst our his- induring around 1,282 PCR tests day conbe the in government percent. It isrecession thebyworst recession our his-1,282 and staff, outand ofCenter; the more than private the lockdowns. They staff, out of the700 than 7 economy. In thewith first three months ofpolice the matters Medical sight, who revenge, he is Children’s recession could rage The and jobsthose policy thatdesire President Duterte 52-year old communist insurgency. Muslimand Despite the overwhelming dominance of ratio,election, on theinother hand, islast at week 2.5 people everrts oftory. the economy. the “drug war.” ducted theducted last week of March, our capacity Section 13 of RA 10149 (GOCC Governand the “drug war.” lem of poverty. in the of March, our capacity a state of calamity. tality In a major schools which will remain closed. These schools which will remain clos quarantine, we prioritized saving lives • The first nuclear power plant in Southdefinitely a heel. has to adopt right away should not be an terrorists are on the warpath marked by a onths. make no sense. generals, the Duterte administration has not 4. Failure the communist inwell into per a ishundred thousand.” 4.contain Failure toused contain the communist in- ance r the ofsystemic 2020, economy ex- goods schools haveschools lost income of lack ofthe m is whole not aprice the andthe supply of bellwether Act ofscheme. 2011) mandates an appointing For the whole of2021. 2020, the economy is ex- new phenomenon—suicide bombers. The have because lost income because against COVID. We thisand time to Board ofto Trustees of PhilHealth, unless My gulay, if east Asia; emergency employment For sure, that ction areappointed surgency and the Muslim separatist moveThe reasons surgency andsystem the separatist moveenrollees. likeby rice, corn,byfish, fuel, even school dedtoindecline percent. BizNewsAsia the Board recommended hisMuslim appointment to any proven itself any more competent nor the ranksThe ofdirector the reasons unemployed wors- areby enrollees. pected to10 decline 10 percent. BizNewsAsia improve our health capacity.” He notes that perPNP 100,000, the memberbudget, • Athe geothermal power plant, one urgent of the and has tripled its EU anti-insurgency ust. Simply, necesshall can be only President it’s an Without a vaccine ment Without a vaccine The group representing these teachers the President. supplies, medicines, and PPEs, are cruen the poverty problem of the country for ment ates the GDP contraction for the whole The group representing thes “By the models of UP and Ateneo, first in the world, as an alternative source estimates the GDP contraction for the whole a worrying sign. clearly spelled out in has grown to about 32,000 average daily tests less corrupt than past administrations. clearly spelled out in states average 31 deaths, UK 70, Spain 61, a short-list prepared byofthe Governance hamper aggregate taP500 Banana, Iallofores Thus, before Gierran canpolitical beto appointed as and The killings of political activists and almany yearsfrom to come. and staff claim that the million cial, especially in battleground regions, The killings of activists albe as large as 30 percent -assuming a and staff claim that the P500 m we averted some 59,000 171,000 energy; 5. Coddling of the police and the military could be as large as 30 percent -assuming a this (August).” forthe general use, theuse, nguez IsPresident he alaw. heel orsigned a into for the When theleaders chief ofleaders the national capital’s President and NPA CEO ofrates PhilHealth, hethe must Sweden 57, and US 52. general While the may have the Commission for Government-owned or-ConPhilippines witho cated to them is not leged NPA have failed to dent the Hardest hit employed was Luzon island which andAdds especially, when the highest cated toenough. them is not enough. leged have failed to dent the law. of P1.5loss trillion for each month of lockdeaths. Our death reduced from has more generals, • Exploration and drilling in Malampaya; Dominguez: “Without the lockdown, ofmost P1.5 trillion for each month of lock- Duterte money beforce firstcommunist appointed asinsurgency. a member ofMuslim the Board law Bayanihan 2, theCorporations billions allotted for his hero? could rage The on jobs policy that 52-year old produces 70 percent ofpolice, total than economic post of the land is at–and stake. police caught on1.6 social recession could rage The jobs policy that Preside 3.deaths Unprecedented human rights the military andviolations the any trolled (GCG). 52-year old communist insurgency. Muslim This lockdown –lockdown the longest and severa high of was 17 percent to just percentmedia plePresident getDuterte emplo the rate of infections could have • Laws culture in the life of can the nation; s.their earlier projected down. This the longest andrecession sever- from of Trustees. project are only stop-gap measures to allehas toCultural adopthas right away should not be an production and is home to 50 percent of What isrun notfor controlled during a state terrorists are on the warpath marked by a other president before him. More than 45 to adopt right away should been much worse. The latest data suggest that or around 4,000 deaths. We averted • The Center of the Philippines terrorists are on the warpath marked by a the world – has seven months. yway. having a breakfast birthday party with more est in the world – has run for seven months. this law,and Gierran can only be ap- finally Under ends! What has made Duterte a strong president, well into 2021. What is/are the legal requirements before Board viate the people’s needs. 8 percent in GDP well into 2021. of Trustees of PhilHealth, unless emergency employment scheme. For sure, the population. of calamity is how the government disBoard of Trustees of PhilHealth, and unless star-rank officers occupy cabinet and civilnew phenomenon—suicide bombers. The emergency employment scheme a little over 1 percent of all COVID-19 cases some 1.3 to phenomenon—suicide 3.5appointed million cases, of which ckage the Philippine International ConvenmeansThis half means of the economic production new bombers. The ispointed Gierran can be as alockdown member of prohalf of the economic production essential and urgent is a long- to byrecommended the President as and a the member guests (despite strict the illegal drugs campaign, has also theWhat Board his appointment ranks the unemployed can only worss now overly optipositions in thecontracted government. the Board his appointment to ofof Investments by 53.5than permoney. The incumbent President in the country severe orvicious critical. Our mor-in ian thethe ranks of the unemployed can PNP50 has tripled anti-insurgency ctual68,000 would be severe andbudget, critical budget, tion Center. merecommended quote Justice Manuel “Lolong” ne by now. That cannot be recovered PNP has tripled its anti-insurgency the Board ofits Trustees? termLet jobs policy to prevent a bigger probis penses gone by now.are That cannot beinrecovered the President. en the poverty problem of the country for Board of Trustees of PhilHealth if he was I don’t know Despite the overwhelming dominance of hibiting gatherings of ten or more people in tality ratio, on the other hand, is at 2.5 people the President. cent in the second quarter and by 36.6 can get all the money he wants to have en the poverty problem of the c given him one of his major failures—massive nomy. a worrying sign. cases on the peak day, which will overhas grown to about 32,000 average daily tests Insofar as Martial law is concerned, it is or general use, the Lazaro, who was the Government CorpoSection 13 of RA 10149 (GOCC Governlem of poverty. months. a worrying sign. has grown to about 32,000 average daily tests four months. Thus, before Gierran be appointed asappointed many come. generals, the Duterte administration hasinvestnot 5. per ahands hundred thousand.” Thus, before Gierran can be assayto percent in the first half. “Private his on and deploy it rights to whoever many yearseasing toitscome. temic ance Act of5. mandates that anmilitary appointing included incan the list prepared and years submitted whelm our healthcare sector.” the one-me Coddling of2011) the police and the MyCounsel gulay, ifduring there’s one element missing, needless to that without proclamarate the Marcos era. “The thisviolations. (August).” one place at the same time), Duterte ance2021. Secretary Carlos Dominguez Coddling of the police andrefused the military human Critics say he killed this (August).” nto Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez President and CEO ofand PhilHealth, he must tion,heWhile the President may have proven itself “Without anyinmore norfor anyin-Duterte Hewherever notes thathe perwants 100,000, the EU CEO ofaccidenPhilHealth, must eces-that and mentAdds slumped Q2 competent with outlays tomoney send it.member shall be appointed by six the President While the President may into havetr it’s an urgent and jobs policy. San“What we find in last months, the Philippines could now beinsigned under has employed more generals, beneficiaries of thelasting February 1986 Adds in Dominguez: the“Without lockdown, ins “nopower matter how much byPresident the GCG to the President. But the PresiDuterte hasthe employed more generals, tocol public Dominguez: thetolockdown, that those “no how much money fire director the erring general. more 27,000 the guise of be first appointed as a member of the Board corrupt than pasteliminating administrations. law Bayanihan 2, the billions allotted for his ame to in states average 31 matter deaths, UKthan 70, Spain 61, less from a short-list prepared by the Governance egate explains be first appointed as a member of the Board ta Banana, I foresee a bleak future for the dustrial machinery and transport equipCombine powers—control of the law Bayanihan 2, the billions allo is that the lower quarantine restriction communist rule. The communists were tal event of time, place and personalities, from the military and the police, than any the rate of infections and deaths could have ries pump into their economies, their from the military and the police, than any the rate of infections and deaths could have countries pump into their economies, their ment dent cannot legally appoint Gierran a memworsen thetoproble When the chief of lower the national capital’s of Trustees. project are only stop-gap measures alleSweden 57, and the US 52. Commission for Government-owned or-ConPhilippines without any assurance that peoof Trustees. the pervasive illegal drugs curse. project are only stop-gap measu 62.1 percent and for private price and supply of any commodity or conto the greatest and has actually opened more sectors of the already all over the country—in the parliahave fashioned and sustained a litany and other that president him. before More than been much worse. Thewas latest data suggest that wouldGDP have shrunkhave massively, anyway. otherbefore president him. 45 More than 45 get beenforce much worse. Theon latest data suggest shrunk massively, anyway. police caught social media What is/are the requirements before viate 3.would Unprecedented human rights violations trolled Corporations (GCG). the more people’s needs. ple can employed when this pandemic ected of legal the Board of Trustees, much asthe Mark my What is/are the requirements before viate people’s needs. construction 46.8 percent lower,” says sumer goods, redirecting taxpayers money economy andoccupy helped bring back jobs.” media, academe, labor and even the word barrage ofber adverse publicity to legal efface Pres- ment, biznewsasia@gmail.com star-rank officers cabinet and civilHuman Rights Watch says many of the a little over 1 percent of all COVID-19 cases on in the country’s ot the sheer size of the stimulus package star-rank officers occupy cabinet and civila little over 1 percent of all COVID-19 cases having a breakfast birthday party with more this law, Gierran can only be apUnder finally ends! It is not the sheer size of the stimulus package What has made Duterte a strong president, Gierran can be appointed as a member of What is essential and urgent is a longGDP to anyone or anywhere, and the restrictions ADB. Public construction slipped by a Gierran can be appointed as a member of What is essential and urgent a PhilHealth president/CEO, my gulay! cases Mr. ian President, lift theagovernment. lockdowns. recognized this ident Marcos from* *the* tapestry of history. clergy. The Supreme CourtCOVID-19 in positions the President government. inactualthe are severe orare critical. Our mor-pro-ian matters now but alsonow whether it iscampaign, actualpointed by the as member of the the in the than guests (despite strict lockdown 27,000 areit has “vigilante-style killings perpetratin50 the country severe or critical. Ourpositions mortheof vicious illegal drugs alsocountry Board ofthe Trustees? matters but also whether is termit jobs policy toofprevent a to bigger probopti- that uarters growth. Board of Trustees? term jobs policy prevent a bi marginal 0.9 percent in Q2. on flow of goods and people under atality lockThey make no sense. I think even when ruled in favor Marcos insofar as They pursued what notable poet Sir RichTake note that before thelem GCG can in- of this nonsense. Despite dominance ratio, on thegatherings otheron hand, is at more 2.5 people Boardthe of overwhelming Trustees the of PhilHealth if heof was I don’t know whoever the10149 idea of(GOCC ing parts the hibiting of ten or people given him one of of hisform major Despite overwhelming dominance of 13 tality ratio, the other hand, isbut at in 2.5 people Section ofSection RA 10149 Governe, thethelyproductive of poverty. saving the productive parts of the economy. 13 had of(GOCC RA Governedeconomy. by police officers themselves or by killers lem of poverty. Duterte may not know it he down of whatever orfailures—massive acronym—and quarters of growth without the lockdowns, you can win ard Maitland sharply observed: ‘The essenMartial Law was concerned. included in the list prepared and submitted easing the one-meter social distancing progenerals, the Duterte administration has not per a hundred thousand.” oneper place at the same time), Duterte refused human rights violations. Critics sayahesystemic killed s because the problem is not asuccessor—without systemic your name thethat shortlist forgulay, appointid generals, the Duterte administration ance has not Act ofclude 2011) mandates thatmandates aninappointing My if there’s oneThey element missing, a hundred thousand.” This is because the problem is to not ance Act of an appointing there’ssay one the eleme achieved almost full employment durDuterte can pick hislinked anitself election. tial matter of history is 2011) not what I sincerely believeMy thatgulay, in time,ifMarcos will the authorities.” by the GCG the President. Butnor theany Presi- nor tocol in shall public transport. Toby methehappened it President would theinfirst quarter of proven any tomore competent to fire the erring general. He notes that per 100,000, the100,000, EU member more than or 27,000 in the guise of eliminating er action orregard a cyclical bust. Simply, necesdirector be appointed proven itself any more competent any it’s an urgent and lasting jobs policy. SanHe notes that per the EU member ment as a member of the Board of Trustees contraction a cyclical bust. Simply, necesand drivers of pu director shall be appointed by the President urgent and as to whether thatcurse. guy is a geni- ing his presidency, an unprecedented dent cannot legally appoint Gierran a mem- worsen but what wrote or by saidthe about it.’” be vindicated. Heit’s wasana visionary, bornlasting ahead jobs p thepeople problem. the pervasive illegal drugs less corrupt thancorrupt past administrations. states average deaths, UK 70,during Spain 61, t and sary Authorities admit to 31 7,000 deaths from a short-list prepared Governance mobility hamper aggregate ta Banana, Itaforesee a bleak future for thefut less than pastmuch administrations. states average 31 deaths, UK 70,when Spain 61, from a there short-list prepared by the Governance mobility restrictions hamper or aggregate Banana, I foresee a bleak achievement. Economists say that us,restrictions a technocrat, a nincompoop, even ber of the Board of Trustees, more as of Philhealth, the GCG first needs to deterMark my words, will be a surge of rior and Local Go biznewsasia@gmail.com Lazaro also said that succeeding adof his time. Generations free from the blemish biznewsasia@gmail.com Human Rights Watch says many of the When the chief of the national capital’s ntry’s Sweden 57, and the US 52. Commission for Government-owned or-ConPhilippines without any assurance that peond.” When the chief of the national capital’s Sweden 57, and the US 52. campaign. Anyunemployment numbers above that arepractical- a PhilHealth president/CEO, my gulay! Commission for Government-owned or-ConPhilippines without anyon assuranc hits 5 percent, ameant dog. So people mustperpetratalready nsiondemand.” a today, 4.2- thethe COVID-19 cases in the country as aare result ministrations have used laws even as they of hate and revenge will look more kindly mine whether you qualified to hold this 27,000 are “vigilante-style killings ardo Año said tha owth. police force was caught on social media 3.orUnprecedented human rights violations (GCG). ple can get employed when this pandemic vernment economists earlier projected force wasthe caught media 3.under Unprecedented trolled Corporations (GCG). to him, Takepolice note that before GCG on cansocial in- trolled ple can get employed when this of thisCorporations nonsense. Government economists earlier projected ly everyone needing a human job hasrights a job.violations It’s decide—do they want more of or Duterte, classified as “homicides investigation.” and acknowledge achievements and sought to destroy or consign Marcos ed police themselves by killers Philippine econoowth having a breakfast birthday party with this law, Gierran can only be can ap- only Under office. finally ends!finallyhis add more jeepney What has made Duterte a strong president, overy ofless, 7 by percent toofficers 8percent percent in8 GDP clude your name in the shortlist for more appointThey say the idea was to help operators having a breakfast birthday party with more this law, Gierran be apUnder ends! What has made Duterte a strong president, like having a factory running at 95 peror none at all? a recovery of 7 to percent in GDP contribution to the nation. oblivion, notwithstanding his solid unpreclinked to thebilauthorities.”Aside from ter of to the drugs war killings, the pointed by the President as a member of the * * * than 50 guests (despite strict lockdown pro1998 $304.9 the vicious illegal drugs campaign, has also ment as a member of the Board of Trustees and drivers of public utility vehicles. Inteh rate in 2021. That is now overly optiMy gulay, it’s a long process! The Prespointed by the President as a member of the of transportation— *** pro- achievements for the good of the thecapacity. vicious illegal drugs campaign, has also than 50 guests (despite strict lockdownedented Duterte has imposed longest and growth rate in 2021. That isthe now overly opti- cent * *whoever * Authorities admit to 7,000 deaths during Board Trustees of ifPhilHealth he was if he I don’t know hadwhoever the ideahad of of Philhealth, GCG needs to more deterrior and Local Government Secretary Eduhibiting gatherings ofgatherings ten or first more people in people given him one ofin his major failures—massive Human Rights Watch has also noted the c. Without a campaign. vaccine for general the Board of PhilHealth Trustees ofpick was I don’t know hibitingthe of ten or inofand poverty, But April more 7.3 milmost strict lockdown inuse, thegeneral world—for given him one2020, of his majorthan failures—massive ident cannot just anybody to be PhilWithout aAny vaccine for use,arethe tancing protocol. thein numbers above that Santa Banana, I cannot believe that this is pro- t nation its people. aduction 4.2- mistic. mine whether you are qualified to hold this ardo Año said that if this is true, we should included in the list prepared and submitted easing the one-meter social distancing one place at the same time), Duterte refused human rights violations. Critics say he killed included inwhat the Lazaro list prepared submitted sion ragethan well into 2021. the one-meter social dista one place at the same time), Duterte refused people lostviolations. theirhis jobs—“largely in killed more six months now from motivated March lion human rights Critics say he classified aswith “homicides under politically detention of most recession could rage well into investigation.” 2021. Imore could well repeat saidPresisoandcoming from theeasing Philippine National Police conofor could Filipinos, Health president and CEO. The three perHealth addthe jeepneys, buses, and means by GCG to the But the tocol in public transport. Totransport. me it experts would to fireoffice. the erring general. more than 27,000 in the guise ofthe eliminating by the President. GCG to theother President. Butchief. the Presitocol in public To m hen the 15, President came to power in services—mainly trade, transport, ac2020. And do we get after to fire the erring general. Aside from thewhat drugs war killings, the more than 27,000 in guise of eliminating 9 bilWhen the President came to power in He said that National Capital Region eloquently that “good deeds, especially those My gulay, it’s a long process! The Pres- dent of transportation—not ease the sociala disprominent critic, Senator Leila de Lima, the cannot legally appoint Gierran memworsen the problem. ceeding $3,000. manent Commissions of GCG and the two What can happen the pervasive illegal drugs curse. dent cannot legally appoint Gierran a memworsen the problem. 2016, he stumbled into the greatest and commodation, restaurants, and entergiving up most of our basic liberties? Human Rights Watch has also noted the verty, July 2016, he stumbled into the greatest and the pervasive illegal drugs curse. Office chief, Major General Debold beneficial to the nation and the people, cannotas Police ident cannot just pick anybody to be Phil- ber tancing protocol. of the Board Trustees, much more Mark words, will be a surge removal May 2018 of Chief Justice Mabiznewsasia@gmail.com berexpunged, ofofsay the Board of Trustees, more members (Secretary ofasmy Finance Markthere my words, there willof be Human Rights Watch says many of themany everything we hav over the worst ecostwith economic expansion in the country’s politically motivated detention ofin his most tainment—but also in industry, espeWell, nothing—but misery and poverty. president and CEO. The three per- a be Health experts this ismy dangerous. Human Rights Watch says of Health the biznewsasia@gmail.com Sinas, deserves a promotion because he has effacedex-officio or Good survives and much longest economic expansion in the country’s PhilHealth president/CEO, gulay! COVID-19 cases in the country as a country result a PhilHealth president/CEO, my gulay! COVID-19 cases in the 27,000 are “vigilante-style killings perpetratprominent critic, Senator Leila de Lima, the consecutive quarterstoday of quarters growth. cially income The Philippines is the epicenter manent Commissions of GCG and the two What (www.manilastandard.net) ria Lourdes Sereno, the manufacturing. revocation ofLoweramcan happen here is that we could lose Carlos Dominguez and Department of (www.manilastandard.net) experience in training new recruits. triumphs in the end. Marcos’ place in history e0.y—70 Philippines ever. 27,000 are “vigilante-style killings perpetrathistory—70 consecutive of growth. Take note that the can this innonsense. Takebefore note that GCG before thein-GCGof can of this openly nonsense. removal in14May 2018 of in Chief Justice Maby officers themselves or by killers ex-officio members (Secretary of Finance everything we Marcos have gained. tteecoand semi-skilled workers, most ofor them of COVID pandemic the whole ofpolice himself added quarters growth What, when Sinas violated that is secure. The laws abound andappointbeneed(now by police officers themselves by killers Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado) will also Duterte himself addednesty 14 quarters ofedgrowth The ban go given Senator retired) Antonio clude your name in the shortlist for They say the idea say wasthe to help operators st in ASEAN. The clude your name in the shortlist for appointThey idea was of to help ria Lourdes Sereno, the revocation of amCarlos Dominguez and Department of * * * (www.manilastandard.net) linked to the authorities.” employed only informally, were hit hard Asia, outside of India, Pakistan, and eever. it went negative in the first quarter of Enhanced Community Quarantine protocols fit us. They are embedded in our legal system linked to the authorities.” before it went negative in the first quarter of ment as a member of the Board of Trustees and drivers of public utility vehicles. InteSO have to vote whether to include you or not “Undas” or All S Trillanes IV who led mutinies in and Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado) will also ment as atomember of Board when of Trustees Thecontinue ban of going cemeteries during nesty given Senator (now retired) Antonio and drivers of party? public utility veh akes the worst . The him Authorities admit 7,000 deaths because fewtohad the2002 option toduring work fromduring Bangladesh. With over 3,000 cases daily, heand hadLocal a mañanita birthday and to govern and guide thethe nation. Authorities admit to 7,000 deaths of Philhealth, the GCG first needs to deterrior Government Secretary Edu2020. SO I SEE have to vote whether to include you or not “Undas” or All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Trillanes IV who led mutinies in 2002 and of Philhealth, the GCG first needs to deterriorCamilo and Local Government Secr in the worst Day is nosay problem home,” notes ADB. we are reaching 300,000 and 2007, and the passage of a numbers new Anti-Terror thewill above that are gun in 1999, theperforacases 4.2economic For PNP Chief Coscolan Marcos’ andshortlist. foresight in lawmaking campaign. Any above thatinare I numbers SEE mine you are qualified to hold this to ardo Año said thatAño if this isthat true,iftowe Begun inexpansion 1999, themeant expansion meant a campaign. 4.2- the Any the shortlist. Day iswhether no vision problem for me and my wife. 2007, of of a new Anti-Terror mine whether you are qualified hold this ardo said thisshould isyears true, erforIronically, Duterte had rescued six be No.and 20the inpassage number total COVID LITO classified as “homicides under investigation.” The GCG is akin to the Judicial and Bar For many ncrease in the size of Philippine econothis is a big insult to us all. Even President for governance are richly illustrated by the Act add more jeepneys, buses, and other means LITO under investigation.” The GCG is akin to the Judicial and Bar office. For many office. years, we have not gone to the fold in the size of (ATA). Philippine econo- classified as “homicides Actincrease (ATA). add more jeepneys, buses, and o BANAYO poverty—defined as an Council. cases in the 220 countries. Aside million fromAside thefrom drugs war killings, BANAYO Duterte did not even varied andCouncil. numerous legal issuances.” rom $72.2 billion in world 1998 toamong $304.9 bilBefore you can be asreprimand My gulay, a gulay, long process! The Prescemeteries ondistho Before you can be appointed as cemeteries of appointed transportation—not easeSinas. the social onit’s those two days. We goprocess! on from the drugs warthekillings, the my (from $72.2 billion in 1998 to $304.9 bilRecently, there have been sensational Recently, there have been sensational ggest My it’s a long The Presof transportation—not ease the he second biggest income of $2 a day. He was going to In fact, we will be in Top 15, dislodging Human Rights Watch has also noted the If only to show an example of the vision I won’t be surprised if one day Sinas n 2016), a dramatic reduction in poverty, member of the Board to any GOCC, Philother days. What matters is that we rememident cannot just pick anybody to be Philtancing protocol. Human Rights Watch has also noted the killings of known political activists, human member of the Board to any GOCC, Phillion in 2016), a dramatic reduction poverty, political other days. What ident cannot just pick anybody becomes to be Philtancing protocol. killings ofinPeople’s known activists, human downOpportunities poverty to of an unheard of 12 Health included, even Bangladesh. Lungs and bubbles politicallybring motivated detention his mostof you must pass through the Health PNP chief himself. A promotion, andand foresight of Marcos, hereones are his legal isber pray for our loved who have middle-income status for and Filipinos, with president and CEO. The three perHealth say experts this is say dangerous. rights defenders, alleged New Opportunities politically motivated detention his most and middle-income status forby Filipinos, with percent Health president and CEO. Thepass three per- experts Health thisfor is Health included, you must through the ber and pray by 2022, from 30s in the 2000s. The economy collapsed 0.7 percent wringer of the GCG, and you must be ingone ahead of us. huh? What’s I wonder. prominent critic, Senator Leila de Lima, suancesCommissions that still apply and still and beingthe used: defenders, alleged New People’s per capita exceeding $3,000. manent of are GCG two and What can next, happen here is that we could losewe ement critic, Senator Leilathede Lima, the theirincome per capita incomerights exceeding $3,000. andprominent manent Commissions of GCG the two What can happen here is that wringer of the GCG, and you must be ingone ahead of us. removal in May 2018 of Chief Justice Maex-officio members Finance ofeverything day, Duterte presides over the worst ecoremoval in May 2018 of Chief Justice Maex-officio(Secretary membersof(Secretary Finance we have gained.

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everything we have gained. Today, Duterte presides over the worst ecoLourdesriaSereno, theSereno, revocation amDominguez and Department of *** c performance of the Philippines ever. ria ever. Rolando G.Carlos Estabillo Publisher Lourdes the of revocation of amCarlos Dominguez and Department of *** Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher (www.manilastandard.net) nomic performance of the Philippines Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado) will also The ban of going to of cemeteries nesty given Senator (now retired) Antonio lump is also the worst in ASEAN. The Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado) will also The ban going to during cemeter nesty can given Senator (now retired) Antonio ManilaStandard The slumpcanisbealso theat:worst in ASEAN. The ManilaStandard accessed Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Managing Editor haveRamonchito be accessed at: Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor L. Tomeldan Managing Editor SO to votehave whether to include you or not you “Undas” or All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Trillanes IV who led mutinies in 2002 and omicONLINE collapse also makes him the worst manilastandard.net Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher SO manilastandard.net Anita F. Grefal Treasury Manager to vote whether to include or not “Undas” or Editor All Saints’ Day and Trillanes IV who led mutinies in 2002 and Anita Grefal Treasury Manager ONLINE economic collapse also makes him the worst Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor ChinF.Wong/Ray S. Eñano Associate Editors in theChin Jimbo Owen Gulle City Wong/Ray S. Eñano Associate Editors I SEE shortlist. Day is no problem me and my Published Monday to by Philippine Manila Standard 2007, and the passage of a new Anti-Terror SEE Legal Adviser dent ever in terms ofSunday economic perforin the shortlist. Day is for no problem forwife. me and m Former Chief S. Puno Board Member &IEditor Chief Baldwin R. Felipe Head—Ad Solutions 2007, and the passage ofJustice a new Reynato Anti-Terror Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer Joyce Pangco Pañares News Baldwin R. Felipe Head—Ad Solutions president inManilaStandard terms of106 economic perforPublishing Inc.ever at 6/F Universal Re Building, Paseo de Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer MEMBER Joyce Pangco Pañares News Editor MEMBER LITO The GCG isRamonchito akinGCG to the Judicial Bar ForBar many years, we have not gone to the can be accessed at: Honor Blanco L. Tomeldan Managing Editor e. LITO Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone Act (ATA). Act The akin to and the Judicial and For many years, we have not g Philippine Press Institute AdelleCirculation Chua Opinion Editor (ATA). Philippine PressCirculation Institute Manager Edgar M. Valmorida BANAYO Adelle Chuacanisbe Opinion Editor mance. EdgarF.M. Valmorida Manager Council. Before you appointed asappointed cemeteries on those twoondays. We godays. on G 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connectingmanilastandard.net all The National Association Anita Grefal Treasury Manager BANAYO Recently, there have been sensational The National Association d that isnumbers all due to the second biggest Council. Before you can be as Jimbo Owen cemeteries those two Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Associate Editors there have been sensational departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, Philippine Newspapers Andof that is all due(Advertising) to the 832-5550. secondP.O. biggest ofRecently, Philippine Newspapers Manila Standard member of the Board tothe anyBoard GOCC, Phil-GOCC, otherPhildays. What matters is that we rememBox 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. killings of known political activists, human e.106 Paseo Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editorial BoardofEmil member toChairman any other matters that w P. Jurado Pañares Emeritus, Editorial Boarddays. WhatLino Baldwin R. Felipe Head—Ad Solutions killings of known political activists, human Opportunities de M. isSanto Joyce News Editor failure. Health included, you mustPangco pass through the through MEMBER manilastandard.net ber and prayber forand our pray lovedforones who have Opportunities rights defenders, and alleged New People’s Health included, you must pass the Pandemic mismanagement our loved ones kati City. Telephone rights defenders, and alleged New People’s 2. Pandemic mismanagement wringer of the GCG,ofand you must in- must gone of us. ahead of us. Philippine Press Institute Adelle Chua Opinion Edgar M. Valmorida Circulation Manager wringer the GCG, andbeyou beahead in- Editor gone connecting all The National Association

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Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

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EmilG.P.Estabillo JuradoPublisher Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Rolando Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher

B2

World

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Empty UN summit for world in crisis NITED NATIONS —The United Nations General Assembly, the annual extravaganza of world leaders’ speeches and round-the-clock diplomacy, opens Tuesday in a quiet hall as a virtual summit addresses the global crisis of COVID-19.

U

LARGEST FIRE. The Bobcat Fire burns near Cedar Springs in the Angeles National Forest on September 21 in Los Angeles, California. The fire, which erupted on September 6 in the Angeles National Forest, has become one of the largest fires in Los Angeles County’s history with over 100,000 acres scored by the fire. AFP

Apple chief: Fires, storms show hit of climate change

Xi critic jailed 18 years for corruption BEIJING—A Chinese tycoon who called President Xi Jinping a clown and criticised his handling of the coronavirus outbreak was jailed for 18 years on Tuesday for corruption, bribery and embezzlement of public funds. Ren Zhiqiang—once among the ruling Communist Party’s inner circle—disappeared from the public eye in March, shortly after penning an essay that lambasted Xi’s pandemic response. His outspokenness had earned the former chairman of state-owned property developer Huayuan Group the nickname “Big Cannon”. Tuesday’s verdict said Ren embezzled almost 50 million yuan ($7.4 million) of public funds and accepted bribes worth 1.25 million yuan, according to a statement from the Beijing No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court. It said the 69-year-old “voluntarily and truthfully confessed all his crimes”, and would not appeal the court’s decision. He was also fined 4.2 million yuan ($620,000). Rights campaigners accuse Xi and the Communist Party of using corruption charges to silence dissent. Beijing has stepped up its crackdown on civil society since Xi took power in 2012, tightening restrictions on freedom of speech and detaining hundreds of activists and lawyers. Tuesday’s verdict claimed that Ren also “abused his power” in his role at Huayuan Group, which caused more than 116 million yuan of losses to the state-owned holding company and more than 53 million yuan worth of property losses for the group. AFP Manila

Standard

SAN FRANCISCO—Apple chief Tim Cook said Monday he views the recent increase in fires, hurricanes and floods as strong proof that climate change is real. The disasters should sway those denying science that shows greenhouse gases are dangerously changing weather patterns, Cook said in a talk streamed during an online event by The Atlantic magazine. Cook reasoned that wildfires raging on the US West Coast, hurricanes slamming the South, and flooding in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions make a compelling case for climate change.

A halo forms around the sun above a statue (C) in Singapore on September 22, 2020. The halo is an optical phenomenon when light from the sun or moon passes through ice crystals suspended in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. AFP

IN BRIEF Taiwan warns China to ‘back off’ from strait

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late KONG CHIP ANG CHIA has been extra-judicially settled among his heirs in accordance with the hereditary shares provided in the Law on Succession, consisting of the following real and personal properties: ► Real Properties: ● Parcel of land with the improvements thereon covered by TCT No. RT-84117 (Quezon City) with Tax Declaration No. F-03200635 (PIN No. 02-032-015021) (Land) and Tax Declaration No. D-032-02861 (PIN No. 114-02-032-15021-1001-2-716-1001) (Improvement); Unit 29-D of Viridian In Greenhills covered by Condominium Certificate of Title No. 012-2018001255 (San Juan City) and Tax Declaration No. 17231293 (PIN No. 116-00-021-04-082-3322), including the Parking Units covered by Tax Declaration Nos. 17-231294 (PIN No. 116-00-021-04-0824257) (Basement 3, Slot No. 57) and 17-231295 (PIN No. 116-00-021-04082-4258) (Basement 3, Slot No. 58).

► Personal Properties: ● 200,192 Shares of Stock at the Bank of Philippine Islands Stock Certificate No. 178024 178025 178026 178027 178028 178029 287856 214964 230898 Total

No. of Shares 20,000 20,000 20,000 20.000 20.000 3,898 28,151 30,974 37,169 200,192

●

TAIPEI—Taiwan on Tuesday demanded that China “back off” and accused it of threatening peace, after a Beijing official rejected a largely respected marine boundary following recent incursions. Foreign minister Joseph Wu urged Beijing to “return to the civilized international standards” after a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said there was no socalled median line in the Taiwan Strait “as Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory”. YELLOW BLACK CYAN MAGENTA Wu told reporters: “The median line has been a symbol of preventing military conflicts and maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait for many years. The Chinese foreign ministry’s comment is stripped the court, which was already tilted to the equivalent of destroying the status quo.” right, of one of its steadiest liberal votes. “I call on the international community With a chance to name his third new justice to condemn the CCP for its dangerous and since entering the White House, Trump is now provocative words and deeds threatening on the cusp of installing a firmly conservative peace... China must back off,” he added in a tweet. AFP majority for many years to come.

Trump to name high court pick by week’s end WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump said Monday he will announce his nominee for the empty Supreme Court seat at the end of this week, kickstarting a political fight set to upend the already nail-biting US election. Down in the polls against Democratic opponent Joe Biden and widely criticized for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, the Republican is seizing on the sudden vacancy at the constitutional court as a way to change the subject and super-charge his right-wing base. “We’ll make a decision probably Saturday, maybe Friday” between five female candidates, Trump told reporters. The death last week of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Biden is leading calls for the Republicancontrolled Senate to delay voting on a nominee until the results of the November 3 election are known, arguing that to rush through confirmation before would be an “abuse of power.” But Trump made clear Monday that he has no qualms in flexing his political muscle and his allies in the Senate have said they intend to deliver. AFP

Historic new Vatican-China deal vexes US

● 405 Shares of Stock at Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation Stock Certificate No. 006452 0363394 036396 036398 036393 036397 036395 080625 104693 175789 249426 Total

Donald Trump that climate change is real during any of their conversations, saying those exchanges were private. “I don’t want to talk about it in detail, but if you sort of back up from it, my whole philosophy is engagement,” Cook said. “I think it’s even more important to engage when you disagree on something.” Trump suggested global warming will reverse itself and dismissed climate change as a cause of ferocious fires engulfing swathes of the West Coast during a briefing with local officials in California last week. AFP

SOLAR HALO.

TODAYof the ESTATE of KONG CHIP ANG CHIA

●

“All of these together, I do believe will convince the people that are not currently convinced about climate change,” Cook said. His remote interview with Atlantic editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg was recorded last week, when smoke from wildfires turned day to night in California and ash fell like snow in some places. “It’s horrendous,” Cook said. “It’s a reminder of how serious climate change is and what’s at stake.” Cook declined to answer whether he had any luck convincing US President

For once, Midtown Manhattan will not be bunkered down in a frenzy of motorcades, and there will be no speculation of breakthrough meetings. Leaders instead have been invited to send in pre-recorded messages, to be played over the coming week in the vast General Assembly where each delegation can send a single masked diplomat. US President Donald Trump, as leader of the host nation, passed on the chance to come in person to the General Assembly, with a speech before low-profile diplomats unlikely to figure as part of his strategy for re-election in November. The summit in normal years draws about 10,000 people from around the world, a prospect that is unthinkable at a time when nations have imposed strict entrance requirements to prevent the spread of COVID-19, which has claimed nearly 950,000 lives. With no chance for in-person meetings and the give-and-take of negotiations, some UN-based diplomats wonder how much can be achieved. The United Nations is nonetheless moving ahead with thematic meetings—also virtual—on the sidelines of the summit to tackle major issues including the coronavirus pandemic as well as climate change, biodiversity and the political turbulence both in Libya and Lebanon. But there will also be less chance for dramatic exchanges between leaders in their speeches. Keen to prevent any technical snafus, the United Nations has asked world leaders to submit their videos four days in advance, meaning there will be no spontaneity or reaction to last-minute developments. US snub for UN The UN week opened Monday with a celebration of the global body’s 75th birthday in the form of a virtual summit where Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pleaded—in person—for more multilateral diplomacy. AFP

No. of Shares 71 10 10 10 6 20 15 35 44 69 115 405

7,287 Shares of Stock at Ayala Land, Inc. covered by Stock Certificate No. 000371.

As per Doc. No. 381; Page No. 78; Book No. II; Series of 2020 before Notary Public ATTY. JORDAN ANDREW Q. LIM. (MS-SEPT. 23, 2020)

VATICAN CITY—The Vatican and China are preparing to renew a historic deal on the appointment of bishops that has slightly thawed icy relations—much to the displeasure of the US. Pope Francis has been working hard to repair ties with the Communist country, but his overtures run contrary to US President Donald Trump’s efforts to push a religious freedom theme against China in his campaign for a second term. The president’s secretary of state Mike Pompeo went on the offensive last week in an article in US religious magazine First Things, slamming the “horrific” persecution of believers of all faiths in China. He wrote that many countries had expressed

“revulsion” at “accelerating violations of human rights”. “The Vatican endangers its moral authority, should it renew the deal”, he added on Twitter. China’s roughly 12 million Catholics have for decades been split between a government-run association, whose clergy are chosen by the atheist Communist Party, and an unofficial underground church loyal to the Vatican. The latter recognizes the pope’s authority and is often persecuted for it. After years of snail-pace negotiations, the Vatican sealed a historical “provisional” agreement with Beijing on 22 September 2018, the exact content of which has never been published. AFP

Cost of Moon return: $28b, says NASA HOUSTON—NASA on Monday revealed its latest plan to return astronauts to the Moon in 2024, and estimated the cost of meeting that deadline at $28 billion, $16 billion of which would be spent on the lunar landing module. Congress, which faces elections on November 3, will have to sign off on the financing for a project that has been set by President Donald Trump as a top priority. The $28 billion would cover the budgetary years of 2021-25. In a phone briefing with journalists Monday on the Artemis mission to return human beings to the Moon, NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine noted that “political risks” were often the biggest threat to NASA’s work, especially before such a crucial election. Barack Obama cancelled plans for a manned Mars mission after his predecessor spent billions of dollars on the project. If Congress approves the first tranche of $3.2 billion by Christmas, “we’re still on track for a 2024 moon landing,” Bridenstine said. AFP

CYAN CYAN MAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK BLACK

Business

Manila Manila

Standard

TODAY TODAY

PSEi September 22, 2020 TOP GAINERS

Stocks down again; Puregold up T HE stock market fell slightly Tuesday in lackluster trading, as investors cautiously weigh government’s plan to ease further the lockdown on some areas in the country.

TOP LOSERS

B3

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index slipped 15.04 points, or 0.3 percent, to 5,894.28 on a value turnover of P4.6 billion. Losers beat gainers, 105 to 86, with 46 issues unchanged. “There will be areas with zero transmission [of COVID-19] in the past month that may be declared under the regime of new normal,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said at

a Palace briefing Monday. He said it would mean a new classification aside from the modified general community quarantine. NOW Corp., owned by the Velarde family, slumped 8.4 percent to P3.28 on profit taking after jumping nearly 50 percent Monday. NOW secured a permit from the government to operate as the country’s fourth major mobile phone operator. Dito CME Holdings Corp., the country’s third major telecom company, dropped 3.2 percent to P3.99. Puregold Price Club Inc. of retail tycoon Lucio Co., however, rose 3 percent to P48.60, while Megawide Construction Corp. climbed 2.7 percent to P7.70. Megawide and Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. and Dong-ah Geological Engineering Company Ltd.

of Korea bagged the P28-billion contract from the Department of Transportation to build the Malolos-Clark Railway Project Package 1. The rest of Asian markets Tuesday extended the previous day’s losses following another rout in New York and Europe as governments impose new containment measures to fight off a second wave of virus infections. Wall Street tumbled, though all three main indexes managed to end off their lows thanks to bargain-buying. The selling continued into Asia, but the losses were shallower. Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taipei and Jakarta fell at least one percent each, while Seoul tumbled more than two percent. Sydney, Singapore and Bangkok were also well in the red.

Dimming hopes for a new US stimulus added to the downbeat mood with Capitol Hill hostilities stoked by the death of US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, while a top White House adviser questioned whether more fiscal help was even needed. After months of economic recovery helped by an improvement in infection and death rates, there is a worry that the coming northern hemisphere winter— which experts say could help the disease spread—will see a return to strict stayat-home rules. With new spikes around the world, authorities are being forced to act, while former Food and Drug Administration commissioner Scott Gottlieb warned the US may experience “at least one more cycle” of the virus in autumn and winter. AFP

Manila Manila

Standard 10 10 September September 2020 2020 TODAY TODAY

To To the the Stockholders Stockholders Chemical Chemical Industries Industries of of the the Philippines, Philippines, Inc. Inc. Subject: Subject: Annual Annual Stockholders’ Stockholders’ Meeting Meeting Ladies Ladies and and Gentlemen: Gentlemen: NOTICE NOTICE is is hereby hereby given given that that the the Annual Annual Stockholders’ Stockholders’ Meeting Meeting of of Chemical Chemical Industries Industries of of the the Philippines Philippines (CIP) (CIP) will will be be held held on on 15 15 October October Floor, Board Board Room, Room, Chemphil Chemphil Building, Building, 2020 2020 at at 9:00 9:00 a.m. a.m. at at the the 77thth Floor, 851 851 A. A. Arnaiz Arnaiz Avenue, Avenue, Legaspi Legaspi Village, Village, Makati Makati City, City, to to consider consider the the following following matters: matters:

MOST ACTIVE

1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5. 6. 6. 7. 7. 8. 8.

Calling Calling the the Roll Roll Presentation Presentation of of Secretary’s Secretary’s Due Due Notice Notice of of the the Meeting Meeting Reading Reading and and Disposal Disposal of of Any Any Unapproved Unapproved Minutes Minutes Presentation Presentation of of the the 2019 2019 Annual Annual Reports Reports Election Election of of Directors Directors Unfinished Unfinished Business Business New New Business Business Adjournment Adjournment

IfIf you you are are unable unable to to attend attend the the meeting, meeting, please please accomplish accomplish the the proxy proxy form…, form…, and and present present the the same same to to the the Corporate Corporate Secretary/Assistant Secretary/Assistant Corporate Corporate Secretary Secretary or or their their representatives representatives not not later later than than 6:00 6:00 p.m. p.m. on on 55 October October 2020, 2020, for for validation validation purposes. purposes. The The validation validation of of proxies proxies shall shall be be conducted conducted on on 10 10 October October 2020 2020 at at the the 7th 7th Floor Floor Boardroom, Boardroom, Chemphil Chemphil Building, Building, 851 851 A. A. Arnaiz Arnaiz Avenue, Avenue, Legaspi Legaspi Village, Village, Makati Makati City. City.

BIGGEST RAILWAY STATION. The facade of the new railway Bang Sue Grand Station is seen

in Bangkok on September 21, 2020. The under-construction Bang Sue Grand Station is on track to be Southeast Asia’s largest railway station and Thailand’s new railway hub for long distance trips when it opens in 2021. AFP

Lufthansa to cut more jobs as it loses €500m a month FRANKFURT, Germany—Lufthansa said Monday it will slash more jobs on top of 22,000 previously announced cuts and put more planes out of service with current losses running at some 500 million euros ($590 million) a month. With demand set to be lower than expected through winter as the coronavirus pandemic continues to severely curtail travel, the airline said it now plans to reduce its fleet by 150 planes by 2025. It had previously estimated it would have to scrap 100 aircraft in response to the unprecedented crisis in the aviation sector. Lufthansa, which received a government bailout worth nine billion euros in June, said it would have to book 1.1 billion in impair-

ment over its fleet decision. And “the previously announced personnel surplus amounting to 22,000 full-time positions will increase as a result of the decisions taken,” it said. The group did not give a figure for further job cuts, but said it would engage in talks with labor representatives to “limit the number of necessary redundancies.” Managers will also be hit, with one in five management positions to go in the first quarter of 2021. A resurgence in infections across Europe meant that after a brief uptick in demand over the summer months, Lufthansa’s previous assumption that demand could reach half of last year’s “no longer seems realistic.”

Germany is also planning new rules from October, requiring travelers arriving from risk zones to go into quarantine for at least five days before taking a test. That would essentially rule out intra-Europe weekend city hops—something which had resumed over the summer months. “The continuing high level of uncertainty in global air traffic makes short-term adjustments to the current market situation unavoidable for the foreseeable future,” said the group. As part of its fleet reduction, the airline said it has been forced to put its eight remaining A380s as well as 10 A340-600s into deep storage. Six A380s had already been taken out of service earlier this year. AFP

Please Please take take note note that that the the proxy proxy executed executed by by aa corporation corporation should should be be in in the the form form of of aa Board Board resolution resolution duly duly certified certified by by the the Corporate Corporate Secretary Secretary or or in in aa proxy proxy form form executed executed by by aa duly duly authorized authorized corporate corporate officer officer accompanied accompanied by by aa Corporate Corporate Secretary’s Secretary’s certificate certificate quoting quoting the the board board resolution resolution authorizing authorizing the the said said corporate corporate officer(s) officer(s) to to execute execute the the said said proxy. proxy. Per Per SEC SEC Memorandum Memorandum No. No. 06-2020, 06-2020, stockholders stockholders may may attend attend and and participate participatein inthe theAnnual AnnualStockholders StockholdersMeeting Meetingthrough throughteleconferencing, teleconferencing, videoconferencing videoconferencing and and other other remote remote or or electronic electronic means means of of communication. communication. IfIf you you wish wish to to attend attend through through videoconferencing, videoconferencing, kindly kindly inform inform the the Corporate Corporate Secretary Secretary at at least least five five (5) (5) business business days days prior prior to to 15 15 October October 2020 2020 so so that that the the proper proper link link may may be be sent sent to to you. you. The The Stock Stock and and Transfer Transfer Book Book of of the the corporation corporation shall shall be be closed closed from from 24 24 September September 2020 2020 to to 14 14 October October 2020. 2020. Immediately Immediately after after the the Stockholders’ Stockholders’ Meeting, Meeting, the the Organizational Organizational Meeting Meeting of of the the Board Board of of Directors Directors will will follow…. follow…. Thank Thank you. you. Very Very truly truly yours, yours, (sgd.) (sgd.) ATTY. ATTY. SALVADOR SALVADOR L. L. PEÑA PEÑA Assistant Assistant Corporate Corporate Secretary Secretary P.S. P.S. The The Definitive Definitive Information Information Statement Statement (“IS”), (“IS”), Management Management Report, Report, SEC SEC Form Form 17A, 17A, and and pertinent pertinent documents documents may may be be accessed accessed through through any any of of the the following following operations: operations: 1. 1. Go Go to to the the CIP CIP website website via via this this link: link: https://www.chemphil. https://www.chemphil. com.ph/main_cip.htm com.ph/main_cip.htm ;; and and 2. 2. Go Go to to the the PSE PSE EDGE EDGE portal portal via via https://edge.pse.com.ph/ https://edge.pse.com.ph/ (MS-SEPT. (MS-SEPT.22 22&&23, 23,2020) 2020)

NOTE NOTE: : This ThisNotice NoticeofofAnnual AnnualStockholders’ Stockholders’Meeting Meeting ad adofofATRAM ATRAMCORPORATE CORPORATEBOND BONDFUND, FUND,INC. INC.last lastSeptember September18, 18,2020 2020was wassupposed supposedtotobe bepublished publishedininthe theBusiness BusinessSection Sectionbut but was waspublished publishedininthe theSports SportsSections Sectionsinstead. instead. For Forthis thiswe weapologize. apologize.

NOTE NOTE: : This ThisNotice NoticeofofAnnual AnnualStockholders’ Stockholders’Meeting Meeting ad adofofATRAM ATRAMTOTAL TOTALRETURN RETURNDOLLAR DOLLARBOND BONDFUND, FUND,INC.. INC..last lastSeptember September18, 18,2020 2020was wassupposed supposedtotobe bepublished publishedininthe theBusiness Business Section Sectionbut butwas waspublished publishedininthe theSports SportsSections Sectionsinstead. instead. For Forthis thiswe weapologize. apologize.

NOTE NOTE: : This ThisNotice NoticeofofAnnual AnnualStockholders’ Stockholders’Meeting Meeting ad adofofATRAM ATRAMUNICAPITAL UNICAPITALDIVERSIFIED DIVERSIFIEDGROWTH GROWTHFUND, FUND,INC. INC.last lastSeptember September18, 18,2020 2020was wassupposed supposedtotobe bepublished publishedininthe the Business BusinessSection Sectionbut butwas waspublished publishedininthe theSports SportsSections Sectionsinstead. instead. For Forthis thiswe weapologize. apologize.

CYAN CYAN MAGENTA MAGENTA YELLOW YELLOW BLACK BLACK

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

B4

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Business

PSE INDEX CLOSING Tuesday, September 22, 2020 -15.04 PTS.

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES

5,894.28

4,399,771,151 100,272 4,629,996,738.65 86

DECLINES

105

UNCHANGED

46

Foreign E xchange R ate

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.3670

Japan

Yen

0.009555

0.4621

UK

Pound

1.281800

61.9968

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.129037

6.2411

Switzerland

Franc

1.093613

52.8948

Canada

Dollar

0.751541

36.3498

Singapore

Dollar

0.734484

35.5248

Australia

Dollar

0.722400

34.9403

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652379

128.2876

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266645

12.8968

Brunei

Dollar

0.731797

35.3948

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000068

0.0033

Thailand

Baht

0.032031

1.5492

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.1690

Euro

Euro

1.177100

56.9328

Korea

Won

0.000859

0.0415

China

Yuan

0.146964

7.1082

India

Rupee

0.013592

0.6574

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.242718

11.7395

New Zealand

Dollar

0.666300

32.2269

Taiwan

Dollar

0.034522

1.6697

LOAN REHABILITATION.

Glenn Leongson, a frozen food vendor from Sta. Maria, Bulacan, is one of the hundreds of NegosyoKo loan clients who availed of BanKo’s Rehab Fund. BPI Direct BanKo, the microfinance arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands, offers several programs that include the newly-launched term extension and loan rehab programs to help microentrepreneur clients cope with the pandemic.

Source: BSP

NGCP seeks gov’t support in construction of power lines By Alena Mae S. Flores GRID operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines asked for government support in the face of hurdles in constructing transmission projects affected by the quarantine restrictions imposed in several parts of the country. NGCP in a statement assured stakeholders it was exerting all efforts to push vital projects forward “and avert all avoidable delays.” “We are thankful and grateful for all the local and national government support we have received so far, but we are again asking for further support, especially as regards the entry of foreign consultants and the rationalization of quarantine restrictions for critical personnel, to further mitigate delays,” NGCP said. NGCP said despite being declared part of essential services, it continued to encounter issues including testing and quarantine variations among local government units, contractor and supplier delivery problems, inability of foreign experts to conduct necessary inspections due to travel clearance requirements, slowdown of manufacturing of equipment and materials from other COVID-19 affected countries and other limitations. The company said the staggered relaxation of quarantine regulations, even those related to essential industries and construction, had not yet allowed the company to fully “return to work” for construction projects. It said restrictions were eased but not fully removed. NGCP said construction works did not resume in full due to health and safety protocols and new normal standards, including COVID-19 testing of all manpower, access to transport and mobility issues and government-mandated manpower limitations. “NGCP is eager to finish its critical projects as close to the original timelines as possible. We are also fully cognizant of the need to restrict movement and activities to help stem the spread of the virus. We are constantly trying to balance public health interests by fully equipping our team with complete PPEs and establishing stringent safety protocols in all workplaces, with the economic need to complete these critical activities,” NGCP said.

PH extends anti-dumping duty on flour from Turkey T HE Tariff Commission slapped another three-year anti-dumping duty on Turkish flour after 16 months of investigation into the dumping activities of Turkish millers.

The first dumping duty imposition made in 2015 was supposed to expire in January 2020, but was extended pending the completion of the investigation. The TC decision is posted on its website. The Philippine Association of Flour Millers which filed the petition to review the expiring 2015-2020 anti-dumping duty on Turkish flour welcomed the TC decision as a victory for fair trade and lauded the TC review process for being just and fair. Republic Act No. 8752, or the AntiDumping Act of 1999, requires the filing

of a petition for extension six months before the expiration. Before coming up with the decision, the TC sent an investigative team to Turkey and visited flour mills exporting to the Philippines. PAFMIL member companies were also inspected by the TC and their production, financial and sales records were reviewed. The new dumping tariff rates are higher than those previously imposed, with the highest dumping rate of 29.57 percent against the previous highest penalty of 16.19 percent duty. The dumping penalty is in addition to the present 7-percent import duty of flour. PAFMIL sought the extension of the anti-dumping duty on the likelihood of recurrence of dumping which would threaten the local flour milling industry. The Philippines is said to be the third largest market of Turkish flour, next only to Iraq and Syria. PAFMIL said Turkey exported as much as $68.5 million worth of wheat flour to the Philippines in 2012,

representing 8 percent of its total flour exports. PAFMIL was represented by the law firm Britanico, Sarmiento and Ringler Law Offices. The Philippines has 22 flour mills producing more than 80 million bags of flour annually. Seven of these mills are members of PAFMIL, including Philippine Flour Mills, Liberty Flour Mills, Wellington Flour Mills, RFM Corp., General Milling Corp., Universal Robina Corp. and Pilmico Foods Corp. Four mills belong to the Chamber of Philippine Flour Millers, including San Miguel Mills, Philippine Foremost Milling Corp., Morning Star Milling Corp. and Delta Milling Corp. The other mills are Monde Nissin Corp., Mabuhay Interflour Mills Inc., Atlantic Flour Mills, Agri Pacific Flour Mills, Asian Grains Inc., Crown Asia Milling Corp., Great Earth Milling Corp., New Hope Milling Corp., North Star Milling Corp., Big C Agri Millers and California Flour Mill Group Inc.

Aboitiz Equity to issue P10-b in fixed-rate bonds By Jenniffer B. Austria CONGLOMERATE Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. said Tuesday it will issue up to P10 billion in fixed-rate bonds to refinance maturing debt. AEV said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday the planned bond offering would be the second issuance under the company’s P30-billion bond shelf registration approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2019. The bonds will consist of a primary offering of fixed-rate retail bonds of up to P5 billion, with an oversubscription option for another P5 billion. The company plans to offer the bonds to the public in the fourth quarter or at a later date, subject to

market conditions. “AEV intends to use the proceeds from the second tranche bonds to partially refinance maturing obligations from its previously issued bonds,” the conglomerate said. The company hired BDO Capital & Investment Corp., BPI Capital Corp., First Metro Investment Corp., China Bank Capital Corp. and SB Capital Investment Corp., as joint lead underwriters for the offering. The bonds will be listed with the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. AEV has P6.2 billion seven-year bonds and another P10.46 billion fiveyear bonds maturing in November 2020. AEV recorded a net income of

P4 billion in the first half, down 55 percent from P9 billion in the same period last year, reflecting the impact of the lower income contribution of its largest business unit, Aboitiz Power Corp. Power accounted for 49 percent of the total income contributions from AEV’s strategic business units. This was followed by banking and financial services (39 percent), food (14 percent), infrastructure (-1 percent), and land (-1 percent). AEV said that despite the weak firsthalf performance amid the business disruption caused by the pandemic, the economy was expected to perform better in the second half as the country slowly opens up and adapts to the new normal.

BDO bags award in sustainability reporting By Julito G. Rada

FOOD DONATION. Chowking, part of the Jollibee Group, donates readyto-eat meals for front liners at San Lazaro Hospital in Manila. In all, the Jollibee Group donated nearly 3,000 ready-to-eat meals for front liners and food packs that benefitted about 6,000 people as part of its FoodAID program.

BDO Unibank Inc., the country’s largest lender controlled by the Sy family, bagged a bronze award in the First Time Reporter category of the prestigious 5th Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards. The First Time Reporter award is given to inaugural and well-rounded sustainability reports that demonstrate the company’s long-term approach to integrating sustainability practice into its business operations. BDO is the only Philippine bank that received the award. Besides BDO, three other Philippine companies were honored at ASRA, including SM Investments Corp., which received a bronze award in the Asia’s Best Sustainability Report category. “We have a strong commitment to sustainability. Environmental, social and governance standards and practices are at the core of how we run our business be-

cause they are aligned with our ‘We Find Ways’ service philosophy,” BDO chairperson Teresita Sy Coson said in a statement Tuesday. “These principles remain our cornerstone as we continue to evolve to serve the needs of our clients and contribute to social progress,” she said. Winning entries in the category are judged on strategic approach to sustainability, meaningful and relevant leadership opening statement, coverage of all significant sustainability impacts of the business, approach to stakeholder engagement and clear presentation of multi-year sustainability performance results. BDO’s award-winning report affirms the bank’s leadership in sustainability reporting and commitment to creating longterm value for stakeholders. BDO’s Sustainability Report, released last year, outlines the bank’s economic, environmental, social and governance performance in 2018.

IN BRIEF SEC clears share sale of PH Resorts Group THE Securities and Exchange Commission approved the P1.125-billion share sale of PH Resorts Group Holdings Inc., the gaming and hospitality business of businessman Dennis Uy. PH Resorts said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday the fund raising activity would enable it to partially finance the construction Emerald Bay, the company’s flagship integrated casino beach front resort in Mactan, Cebu. It will also widen its public float currently at 10 percent. PH Resorts plans to offer as much as 300 million common shares with an over allotment option of up to 150 million common shares to be sold at an indicative offer price of between P1 and P2.50 each. “This is another milestone on the way to completing Emerald Bay and continuing on our journey to further put the Philippines on the regional and international gaming map,” said PH Resorts chairman Dennis Uy said. Jenniffer B. Austria

Globe’s broadband prices down by 60% GLOBE Telecom Inc. on Tuesday said its broadband prices have dropped by more than 60 percent in the last four years, among the lowest in Southeast Asia. “Investments in the network are done every year to improve internet experience at home. We use the latest technologies such as 4G/LTE and 5G to improve speed and quality of experience. We are also accelerating the deployment of fiber optic cables to provide a seamless experience for multiple internet users inside the home,” said Darius Delgado, head of Globe’s broadband business division. “As we widen our footprint for broadband, we likewise make the services more affordable. We have a whole range of broadband offers suited to one’s budget and internet usage,” he said. From as high as P26 per GB, the Globe At Home Postpaid LTE has gone down to P9 per GB over the last two years, or a 65.4-percent price decrease. Globe at Home Prepaid WiFi customers, meanwhile, now pay P9 per GB only from as high as P23 in 2017; P15 in 2018; and P10 in 2019, or a decrease of 60.87 percent since 2017. Darwin G. Amojelar

CeMAP, PISI support Bayanihan 2, recovery THE Cement Manufacturers Association of the Philippines and Philippine Iron and Steel Institute expressed support to the government’s prioritization of local products and construction materials for infrastructure projects under Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, or Bayanihan 2. CeMAP and PISI said in a statement they were committed to supporting the nation on the road to recovery amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This is done not just through relief aid but also by ensuring continued operations of the construction materials industries while ensuring the health and safety of employees to preserve as many jobs as possible. CeMAP said the use of local building materials such as cement and steel for the “Build, Build, Build” program can help support the nation’s economic recovery by continuing to preserve jobs, contributing to the national income through taxes and ensuring that the multiplier effect of supporting local businesses is fully taken advantage of.

PSALM selling 5.4-ha. property in Pampanga STATE-RUN Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. said Tuesday it is privatizing a 5.447 – hectare property in Barangay Lagundi, Mexico, Pampanga with a minimum bid price of P803.151 million. PSALM said in a statement Tuesday the property has a clean title, adding the location is best suited for commercial land development. The lot is highly accessible through the North Luzon Expressway, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, MacArthur Highway and Jose Abad Santos Avenue. The property is also near community centers like schools, hospitals and major shopping malls. “The new owner may redevelop the area for wholesale and retail stores, shops and supermarkets. The area is also projected to benefit from the planned Manila-Clark Railway system which will be completed by the last quarter of 2021,” PSALM said. PSALM, which manages the assets and liabilities of National Power Corp., set the deadline for the submission of bids for the property on Oct. 20 at 2 p.m., after which the opening of bids will immediately follow. The bidding will be conducted at the PSALM’s office at the 24th Floor Vertis North Corporate Center 1, North Avenue, Quezon City. A prebidding conference will be held on Sept. 24 at 2 p.m. to answer inquiries from interested parties and especially those pertaining to the terms of the sale. PSALM recently held a pre-bid conference for the privatization of five real estate assets in General Santos City, Loboc, Magdalena, Sudipen and Camalaniugan. Alena Mae S. Flores

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Jordan buys NASCAR team; recruits Wallace to be lead driver

Bubba Wallace, driver of the #43 Cash App Chevrolet, drives during the NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 19, 2020 in Bristol, Tennessee. Soon, Wallace will be driving for former NBA star and owner of Charlotte Hornets team Michael Jordan (inset), who has purchased a NASCAR Cup series charter team and recruited the trailblazing black driver to race for the new outfit next season. AFP

POC chief promises to do more in 4 years

2 former Jr Gilas players commit to join Eagles

By Peter Atencio

TWO former members of the Batang Gilas national youth program are coming aboard. Six-foot-five Josh Lazaro and his former Batang Gilas teammate Forthsky Padrigao still have a year left in high school, with the Ateneo Blue Eaglets. But this early, both cagers made a commitment to play in college for the Ateneo Blue Eagles. Their decisions are considered a boost to the Blue Eagles’ rebuilding program, according to coach Tab Baldwin. Lazaro and Padrigao said they were impressed by the program laid by Baldwin, thereby influencing their decision to stay put and turn down offers to play and study for other schools. “We have two commitments from high school. It’s always a pleasure to bring in players from high school,” said Baldwin in a virtual meet-andgreet on Zoom. Both players will play for the Blue Eagles in Season 84 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines after finishing their final year with the Blue Eaglets in high school. The 18-year-old Lazaro was a member of the Mythical Team in the UAAP Season 82. He was one of the key players that helped the Blue Eaglets reach the stepladder semifinals. Lazaro, who transferred from the San Beda Red Cubs, keyed in averages of 13.2 points, 12.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks with the Blue Eaglets. “My parents told me how good the program. That attracted me,” said Lazaro. Lazaro’s high school career was highlighted by a stint with the Gilas Pilipinas Youth team, which competed in the 2017 FIBA Under-16 Asia Cup in Foshan. He later made it to the national squad that went to the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup in Argentina. Turn to C2

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HILIPPINE Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino will seek a full four-year term as POC chief when elections are held on November 27. “Hindi naman full time ‘yung (position) tinakbuhan ko. I just ran to fill up the gap that was left when Mr. (Ricky) Vargas resigned,” said Tolentino, who represents the 4th District of Tagaytay in congress. “Hindi naman sa nagbubuhat ng bangko pero nakita ninyo naman ang nagawa natin. Much more if it would be a complete term,” the POC head stressed. The president of the Integrated Cycling Federation talked about his intentions during Tuesday’s virtual session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum presented by San Miguel Corp., Go For Gold, MILO,

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Abraham Tolentino

Amelie Hotel Manila, Braska Restaurant and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., with Upstream Media as official webcast partner and powered by Smart. He revealed that Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio and Ormoc City mayor Richard Gomez are joining his ticket. Panlilio, who is also the president of Smart Communications and chief revenue officer of PLDT, is seeking the post of first vice president. Gomez, who is the president of fencing and the modern pentathlon federation, will campaign to win the

second vice president post. Archery chief Clint Aranas, who used to be the president of the Government Service Insurance System, will challenge Tolentino’s bid for the presidency. The POC chief said he will name the rest of the members of his ticket in the coming weeks. Tolentino won over athletics’ chief Dr. Philip Ella Juico by four votes, 24-20, in the special elections ordered by the International Olympic Committee on July 28, 2019 after Vargas, head of the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines, stepped down from his post. Tolentino’s election meant serving the POC for only 16 months or not even half of the full four-year term allowed. But Tolentino was able to right the ship when the Philippines dominated the 30th Southeast Asian Games the Philippines hosted in December last year under his term. “I was the sole author of 56 sports and how many events in the Southeast Asian Games, kung paano ako nakipag-one-on-one sa mga NSA (National Sports Associations),” he added. “So sa sports community ang tanong, ‘may nai-contribute ba ako?’ It’s for them to find out.”

LOS ANGELES—Basketball icon Michael Jordan announced Monday he has purchased a NASCAR Cup series charter team and recruited trailblazing black driver Bubba Wallace to race for the new outfit next season. Jordan, widely regarded to be the greatest player in NBA history with an estimated net worth of $1.6 billion, will be the majority owner in the new franchise with veteran racer Denny Hamlin as minority partner. “Growing up in North Carolina, my parents would take my brothers, sisters and me to races, and I’ve been a NASCAR fan my whole life,” Jordan said in a statement. “The opportunity to own my own racing team in partnership with my friend Denny Hamlin, and to have Bubba Wallace driving for us is very exciting for me.” Jordan, who also owns the Charlotte Hornets NBA team, said he hoped his ownership could bring new audiences to the white-dominated world of NASCAR and boost involvement of minorities. “Historically, NASCAR has struggled with diversity and there have been few black owners,” Jordan said. “The timing seemed perfect as NASCAR is evolving and embracing social change more and more. In addition to the recent commitment and donations I have made to combat systemic racism, I see this as a chance to educate a new audience and open more opportunities for black people in racing.” Wallace, the only black driver in NASCAR, will spearhead the team behind the wheel. The 26-year-old had confirmed earlier this month that he would not race again for Richard Petty Motorsports. Wallace has spoken out against racism repeatedly this year in the wake of George Floyd’s killing in Minneapolis, and in June called on NASCAR chiefs to ban the Confederate flag from racetracks used on the circuit. The flag has long been a staple at NASCAR tracks in the sport’s southern US heartlands, but it remains a symbol of slavery and racism for many. NASCAR later banned displays of the flag at its races. Wallace was involved in controversy in June, after his team reported that a noose had been found hanging in the team garage at Talladega Superspeedway. AFP

Geje believes his best still to come

Geje Eustaquio: I haven’t reached my full potential yet

DESPITE being one of the division’s headliners for the longest time, former ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio believes he has yet to reach his peak in ONE Championship. Coming off a sensational walk-off spinning back kick win over Toni “Dynamite” Tauru last November, the 31-year-old is gearing up for another run to the top as ONE Championship resumes normal operations. “Flyweight is one of the most stacked divisions in ONE Championship,” Eustaquio said. “All I can say is that I haven’t reached my full potential as an athlete. I welcome the challenge no matter how hard it is.” Considering that ONE Flyweight World Champion Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes will defend his strap against ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix winner Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson sometime in the future, “hard” is an understatement.

Either of those two men can drag Eustaquio into deep waters. Then there are the contenders. Fifth-ranked flyweight Reece “Lightning” McLaren will take on Aleksi “The Giant” Toivonen at ONE: REIGN OF DYNASTIES on 9 October, and the result will certainly have major implications for the division. Eustaquio’s teammate and second-ranked flyweight Danny “The King” Kingad is also in the flyweight mix, while old foes Kairat “The Kazakh” Akhmetov and Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu aren’t far behind. Though no date for Eustaquio’s return to the ONE Circle has been scheduled, the charismatic slugger from Baguio City promises that the best has yet to come for him. “Fans around the world can expect me to be better and better until I can say that I am finally in my prime,” Eustaquio said. Catch ONE: REIGN OF DYNASTIES on October 9 for free by downloading the ONE Super App.

Smart: Celtics closer than ever MIAMI—Boston Celtics star Marcus Smart says the locker-room bust-up following last week’s defeat to the Miami Heat has brought the team closer together as they chase a serieslevelling victory on Wednesday. Smart reportedly stormed out of the Celtics dressing room after Boston blew a 17-point lead before slumping to a 106-101 loss to Miami in game two of the NBA Eastern Conference finals last Thursday. Boston fought their way back into the best-of-seven series in game three on Saturday, defeating Miami 117-106 to cut the Heat’s lead to 2-1. That victory leaves the series finely balanced as Boston prepare to face Miami in game four in Orlando on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Smart compared the locker room recriminations that followed game two to a family argument, de-

scribing it as “electrifying.” “We’re a family. Family fights all the time,” the 26-year-old point guard said. “I fight with my brothers all the time. But at the end of the day, we can fight with each other, nobody else can. “You know, it happens between families, especially a family like ours who’s been together for so long. It’s going to happen. “We’ve got a lot of guys who play with their heart on their sleeves, night in, night out, and we weren’t supposed to be happy down 2-0, especially those two games that we gave up. “Of course emotions are going to fly, but we’re a family and that happens.” Smart added that the dressing room row had helped him see his team-mates in a different light. “I knew we were emotional. I knew we were

passionate, and I knew we all loved each other. But I also learned a lot .... we grew up even more through that adversity,” he said. “I’ve always been saying that before you see the rainbow it has to storm. For us that was a storm that we had to go through. We found our happy place. “Like I said, families fight, but for us to be able to respond like we did and to be able to have that growth, it shows a lot. “The way I responded and my teammates responded, it showed that we’re as close as ever. We say what we have to say. We all come together, we get our emotions out and we go take it out on the other team.” The Celtics are bidding to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2010, when they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in seven games. The Lakers lead the Western Conference finals 2-0 against the Denver Nuggets. AFP

Marcus Smart

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Rafa is French Open favorite, says Novak R ment pushed back to autumn because of the coronavirus pandemic. Nadal “prefers high bounces, that it is hot, that the ball goes fast,” said Djokovic, the French Open champion in 2016. “So let’s see. It’s going to be interesting. I think even though he’s the number one favourite, I think there are players that can win against him there.” Schwartzman agreed that Nadal was the favourite. “Rafa is the king. It’s his house. He went to Roland Garros many years playing good, sometimes not playing his best and he won. “I think Rafa is always there, the guy who is going to win.”

OME—Rafael Nadal remains “number one favorite” for Roland Garros, rival Novak Djokovic said Monday, despite saying the Spaniard’s last-eight exit at the Italian Open showed he can be beaten on clay.

Nadal, a 12-time Roland Garros winner, lost in the quarter-finals of the Italian Open to world number 15 Diego Schwartzman. “Even though he lost this week, I still think, a lot of people will agree, he’s the number one favourite and, the record that he has there, the history of his results, you just can’t put anybody in front of him,” said Djokovic.

World number one Djokovic beat Argentine Schwartzman 7-5, 6-3 in Monday’s final to win a fifth Rome title, and a record 36th Masters crown to move one better than Nadal. “But, you know, definitely Diego showed that Nadal is beatable on clay,” added the Serb. Conditions in Roland Garros could also have an impact, with the tourna-

The world number one lifted a record 36th Masters crown, one more than great rival Rafael Nadal, after beating Diego Schwartzman 7-5, 6-3 in the final at the Foro Italico in Rome. “Turning to Paris, I couldn’t ask for a better tournament here in Rome. Another big title and I’m super pleased,” said Djokovic. “I don’t think I played my best tennis throughout the entire week, but I think I found my best tennis when I needed it in the decisive moments.” Djokovic extended his record to 31 wins from 32 matches this year, with his only loss the US Open disqualification for accidently hitting a line judge with a ball.

Schwartzman had shocked nine-time tournament winner Nadal in the quarter-finals. But he ran out of steam in a final played under light drizzle, having also spent more than three hours on the court in Sunday’s semi-finals. Top women’s seed Simona Halep lifted her first trophy in Rome, a confidence booster ahead of the French Open, after defending champion Karolina Pliskova retired injured while trailing 6-0, 2-1 in the final. World number two Halep was competing in her third Rome WTA final, having finished runner-up in 2017 and 2018. AFP

Ex-Maroon, 4 others arrested in drug sting By Joel E. Zurbano LAWMEN arrested a former University Athletic Association of the Philippines basketball player and four others in a buy-bust operation in Parañaque City early Tuesday morning. Arrested were Kevin Rae Astorga, 34, former UAAP basketball player of UP Fighting Maroons and a resident of 40 Avelino Circulo 12, Parañaque City; Augustine Deulexandre Montejo, 39, of 37 Indonesia Street, Barangay Don Bosco, Bicutan, Parañaque City; Jericho Martin Tomagan, 33, of BF L16 St. John Street, Las Piñas City; Karen Salvahan, 30, of 1113 Vallejo Street, Sta Rosa, Laguna, and Miguel Carlos Mojares, 30, of 12 Arambolo Street, BF Homes, Parañaque City. Seized from the suspects were 150

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Spain’s Rafael Nadal plays a backhand to Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman during their quarterfinal match of the Men’s Italian Open at Foro Italico in Rome, Italy. AFP

Lightning edge Stars, 3-2, level Stanley finals LOS ANGELES —The Tampa Bay Lightning held off a rally by the Dallas Stars to level their Stanley Cup final series with a 3-2 victory on Monday. A first period scoring blast featuring goals from Brayden Point, Ondrej Palat and Kevin Shattenkirk set up the win for Tampa Bay, beaten 4-1 in Saturday’s finals opener in Edmonton. Joe Pavelski pulled a goal back for Dallas in the second period on a power play before Mattias Janmark added a second in the third period for the Stars. Tampa Bay goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy finished with 27 saves, including 17 made during a ferocious Dallas onslaught in the second period. “This was an emotional game,” Lightning forward Anthony Cirelli said. “There were ups and some downs. It’s always good to come out with the win. “I thought we did a pretty good job of weathering the storm there. Whenever you can come out with a victory is a positive for us, so we’ll take some video, we’ll look at some good and the bad things, and move on.” Russian winger Nikita Kucherov was the architect of Tampa Bay’s first period scoring blitz, providing two assists as his team scored three times in just 3min 53 seconds. Point and Palat scored Tampa Bay’s opening two goals on power plays. “We had some good looks in the first game, we just couldn’t score,” Kucherov said. “I think we just stuck to what we have to do, keep it simple, shoot the puck at the net, get those rebounds. “Just keep it simple, that’s the key to our success today and fortunately we got two goals today,” he said. Dallas coach Rick Bowness, meanwhile, bemoaned his team’s error-strewn first period that allowed Tampa Bay to take control of the contest. “They won the first, we won the second,” Bowness said. “But you can’t be doing what we did in the last half of that first period. It’s very simple to explain. “The penalties got us in trouble, no question. We had a lot of unforced turnovers,” he said. The Lightning are seeking to add a second title to the one they captured in 2004. They fell in six games to Chicago in the championship series in 2015. AFP

Padrigao, who transferred from Adamson, was a member of the Mythical Team in UAAP Season 81, averaging 17.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 3.7 steals. He saw action in the 2018 FIBA Under-17 World Cup in Argentina, where the Philippines placed 13th. Their commitments came a week

grams of kush, a high grade marijuana with a street value of P168,000.00, small transparent self-sealing plastic sachets with traces of suspected cocaine, various drug paraphernalia and two mobile phones. A composite team from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-National Capital Region, Southern Police District-District Intelligence Division, and Paranaque City Police Station conducted the buybust operation around 12 midnight at a suspected drug den in JEMP Building, Barangay BF Homes. The suspects are now in the custody of PDEA and will be charged with violation of Sections 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13,14 and possible 15 Art. II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

after Christopher Acosta Koon, a talented 6’5” Fil-American guard gave the Ateneo Blue Eagles a big surprise when he finally accepted an offer to come aboard and join the program for the next six years. The 19-year-old Koon was wooed by Baldwin and team supporters to come over for the last four years. Koon played four years in Rolling Hills Preparatory in high school. Peter Atencio

NFL fines teams, coaches for face-mask snubs LOS ANGELES—Three NFL teams and their head coaches were hit with fines totaling more than $1 million for failing to wear face coverings, reports said Monday. The NFL Network reported that the Denver Broncos, San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks had each been fined $250,000 for breaching safety protocols set up to combat the threat of COVID-19. Broncos coach Vic Fangio, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll were also fined $100,000 each for failing to wear masks. Fangio, Shanahan and Carroll were all seen not wearing mandated face coverings during their respective games at the weekend. The NFL’s disciplinary action came a week after the league warned teams in a memo to follow safety protocols regarding COVID-19 measures or risk “accountability measures.” “We must remain vigilant and dis-

ciplined in following the processes and protocols put in place by not only the league, union and clubs, but also by state and local governments,” NFL executive vice president of operations Troy Vincent wrote. “The NFL-NFLPA Game Day Protocol, which reflects the advice of infectious disease experts, club medical staffs and local and state governmental regulations requires all individuals with bench area access to wear face coverings at all times. “Failure to adhere to this requirement will result in accountability measures being imposed against offending individuals and/or clubs,” he said. “The face covering must be worn as designed so that it securely fits across the wearer’s nose and mouth to prevent the transmission of the virus.” The NFL warning came after several coaches were caught on camera either wearing face coverings inconsistently or not at all during the league’s opening weekend. AFP

A security guard looks over empty stands during the second half of the NFL game between the New Orleans Saints and the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Saints, 34-24. AFP

Abueva’s perfect way to return THE LINK REY JOBLE IT’S been more than a year since Calvin Abueva was been suspended by the PBA, yet there’s still no sign of ‘The Beast’s’ retur n to action. It has been a struggle for the hardworking, 32-year-old forward of the Phoenix Fuel Masters as he needed to go through a gruelling process of serving the indefinite suspension imposed on him by the pro league. But it will only be a matter of time and Abueva might find himself back on the hard court. The PBA holds its bubble tournament in Clark, Pampanga and signs of the former San Sebas-

tian stalwart coming back is getting clearer by the day. Games of the PBA, once it restarts, will all be held at the Angeles University Foundation Arena, which is a few kilometers away from Abueva’s hometown. It’s a perfect setting, and although he won’t enjoy the homecourt advantage, the player’s return is highly anticipated, not just by the local folks there, but the PBA community in general. We expect to see a reborn Abueva, who is out heal himself from “selfinflicted” wounds. Admittedly, the excess baggage he had been carrying were too much of a burden and the player exploded about 15 months ago following the incident he got involved with TNT import Terrence Jones. What the fans would love to see is the same energetic Abueva, whose motor and adrenaline every game are like no other. We would love to

witness the same intensity, but more tamed in controlling his emotions. We would like to see a player, who has learned his lessons. We would want to have an Abueva that is determined to recapture the stardom, the street ball enthusiasm that was well-loved by fans, who emulated his style of play because it was a tailor-fit to the Pinoy brand of basketball. Nothing is more exciting to watch than a free-wheeling player, who would do whatever it takes to win, carrying the devil-may-care attitude. That’s the Abueva we knew. A player who plays with pure joy and passion. Pending the approval of PBA commissioner Willie Marcial, Abueva might be back in action in no time. The player has already been practicing with the squad as the league allowed him to rejoin the Fuel Masters

in small group practices. It’s a good way to start just to get the ball rolling and allow him to get the feel of the court. Once the five-on-five scrimmages are allowed, expect the excitement to build up more. Fans are thrilled for the retur n of the PBA. Pinoy hoop junkies certainly have ever y reason to do so. The NBA conference f inals are now on going and in just a month’s time, there will be new champions in the world’s leading sports entertainment. Abueva would be an instant attraction for the league’s return, not just because fans missed him badly, but the return to action might serve as a perfect setting for a new and improved Abueva. And in a heartwarming lead, it’s best to write that ‘The Beast’ is f inally home.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

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Getting real with Nico and Solenn PARENTS worrying about their kids is nothing new but what we may not immediately realize is the fact that in between panicking or going crazy for being firsttime parents, there are already many kinds of support readily available around us. In a wacky live online talk show Tea Time with the Bolzicos, Nico Bolzico and Solenn Heussaff, joined by Cebu-based influencers Kryz and Slater Young, had a discussion about being first-time parents. Both couples are months-old parents who are now experiencing hands-on parenting during the pandemic. In the course of their discussion on the chang-

BEAUTIFUL FAMILY. Celebrity couple Solenn Heussaff and Nico Bolzico share their excitement and anxieties of being first time parents.

es in their priorities and discovering the joys of parenthood, they talked about the importance of protecting their children against risks, especially during this time when health risks abound. They also touched on the fact that for most parents, getting medical insurance for their child rarely crosses their minds as they consider physical needs as a more pressing matter. Nico and Solenn are both AIA Philam Life ambassadors, and during the show, they also interviewed chief executive officer Kelvin Ang who talked about AIA Med-Assist for children, a variable life insurance plan with medical benefit rider designed to address medical expenses due to hospitalization of 0 to 17-year-olds. “Making AIA Med-Assist available for children is another indication of our

Bong Revilla reflects on his COVID-19 ordeal A

CTORpolitician Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. disclosed about his bout with COVID-19 early last month. On Aug. 18, he was rushed to the hospital -- where he had to wait for two days to get a room -after developing pneumonia. “It was an experience that’s really hard to forget. No, I didn’t get any VIP treatment. The hospital treats COVID patients equally,” Sen. Revilla told Manila Standard Entertainment in a virtual interview. Although he got discharged from the hospital on Aug. 24, he still went to continue his isolation. “There were doctors and nurses who were watching over me but still I had to take care of myself. I had to be mentally strong while gathering my strength because this virus is really serious. I prayed a lot when I was in my hospital bed because apart from my family, I drew strength from Him,” the senator shared. He considers his bout with the deadly virus and his time away from his family (again) a learning experience. At the

At home, the Revilla family still follows strict health protocols even after Bong had recovered from COVID-19 virus.

moment, they are implementing strict health and sanitary protocols at their home where he currently performs his duties as public servant. “Our security personnel are kind of locked-in in our house as well, just to make sure that for 30 days they are not in contact with anyone outside the house. Everything that goes inside the house is properly sanitized, too,” he revealed.

Sen. Bong Revilla is throwing a virtual party as he turns 53.

After recovering from COVID-19, Bong immediately went back to his normal routine including working out to boost his immune system, apart of course from taking vitamins and supplements. He encourages people to be more vigilant and observe proper hygiene. “You know, I’d like to remind everybody to be more transparent. Wag kayong mahihiya that if you have been near somebody who is positive, even if you don’t have symptoms, don’t be in denial. The virus spreads like a domino effect,” he said. Bong, who is turning 54 this Friday admitted that he is celebrating his birthday in a different way. “It’s going to be a big event, but it’s going to be held virtually,” he revealed adding that part of the celebration is his program for young students. “We will hand out around 1,500 tablets to deserving students. Our original plan was to give out around 300 hundred but a lot of assistance came in like Mother Lily Monteverde kayo umabot ito ng ganyan kadami,” Bong shared. Sen. Bong’s KAP program aims to give 10-inch tablets that students can use for distant learning. He made the official announcement on Sept. 20. “We wanted to serve as inspiration at sana ay mabigyan natin ang mga magaaral na talagang nangangailangan dahil sila talaga ang inspirasyon ko sa kaarawan kong ito,” Sen. Bong ended.

commitment to fulfill our mission of racing against risk to protect Filipino families from life’s uncertainties. We are one of the few insurance companies who make insurance products available to children, an age group whose protection needs are not given much attention,” And shared with the hosts. “Through this product, parents are able to show their love and responsibility for their children. For us, it’s a way to bring to life our brand promise of helping Filipinos live Healthier, Longer and Better Lives,” said AIA Philam Life executive added. Know more about AIA Med-Assist for children by visiting the AIA Philam Life website at philamlife.com, Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/AIAPhilamLife/, emailing philamlife@aia.com or calling (02)8528-2000.

Regine Tolentino still radiates at 42 FOR older millennials, Regine Tolentino was the petite TV personality who became the first Filipino to set foot on MTV Asia studio as a VJ in 1997. She was also the sweet yet sultry dancing princess at that time. Now 42 years old, Regine, who juggles her time being a TV host, actress, a dancer, a fashion designer, and an entrepreneur all at the same time opens up about feeling still active and full of energy despite wearing numerous hats. She also talks about motherhood and bearing and nursing a child again, this time in her 40s and while in strict quarantine. In March, Regine—who has two daughters Reigne, 21 and Reigen, 19, with former husband Lander Vera Perez —welcomed Rosie Rignee with partner Dondi Narciso. “It’s been almost two decades since I last had a baby and I had to give birth to this one amid the COVID-19 pandemic. So, this is really challenging for me both physically and mentally,” the TV personality said during a virtual event where she was launched as the face of Radiance C Vitamin C Plus. Despite the challenge, Regine still considers h e r difficult pregnancy a blessing. “At a time of uncertainty and anxiety, everyone is looking for a spark of hope, a miracle that will raise our spirits and make everything better. This blessing can come in any shape or form,” she wrote on Instagram after delivering her child via C-section. Regine shared that her family

and kids know how busy her schedule was. But since the lockdown, it was a great bonding experience for her and her daughters who turned out to be more relaxed than she was. “My daughters have given me more happiness and more hope to go through this chapter of our lives. They make me think and stay positive,” Regine stated. Meanwhile, Regine believes that her being Radiance C endorser helps her perform all her personal duties at home well while being on top of her game professionally. “Now that we are all experiencing this pandemic, all the more we need to stay healthier especially our immune system. Best to have a vitamin C that prov ide s us with total health care,” she concluded.

Regine Tolentino, 42, talks about motherhood and professional endeavors while trying to cope with the pandemic.

FDCP caps off Philippine Cinema centennial celebration with multitude of activities THE Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has been continuing its efforts in supporting, promoting, and empowering the local film industry. In the last few months, this support has come in the form of the DEAR assistance program for displaced workers during the pandemic, online film festival support, regional film schools, and more. FDCP commemorates “Sine Sandaan,” the year-long celebration of the Centennial of Philippine Cinema that kicked off in September last year. As the celebration nears its end, FDCP ramped up its program of activities for an eventful September dubbed as “Sine Sandaan: The Next 100,” which represents the agency’s vision and hope of moving forward to the future with Philippine Cinema through innovation, collaboration, and solidarity. With this special celebration, FDCP has scheduled an array of events aiming to celebrate, support, and advance the

FDCP Chairperson and Ceo Liza Diño (right) with Dante Ang.

growth of Philippine cinema. “September marks the official closing of the 100 years of Philippine cinema. Despite the pandemic, the FDCP wanted to ensure that our efforts will mean-

ingfully honor this once-in-lifetime event through various events, activities, and programs all year round,” FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño spoke about the events in store for this mile-

stone celebration. “And as we close ‘Sandaan,’ we open our ‘Next 100’ by launching several initiatives as we look forward to a better, more sustainable, and progressive hundred years.” Diño stressed that these initiatives represent how the agency foresees the future of the Philippine film industry and how they can support it to reach greater heights. “The future of Philippine Cinema is to realize the ambition of continuously elevating the level of filmmaking in the country and be globally competitive. It’s about empowering the stakeholders to diversify and enrich not just through our narratives and stories but in our representation in the international film community and industry,” Diño said. This month’s conduct of activities is all about collaboration as FDCP wishes for Sine Sandaan: The Next 100 to be a platform to partner and support stake-

holders and organizations and engage them as professionals. “On Sept. 30 at the closing event, we will make this a holistic celebration by giving work and financial support to the workers of the Philippine film industry as they recover from the damaging impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while also still making the best of what we have as a community,” Diño added. To officially close the Philippine Cinema Centennial, FDCP will host and stream a two-hour virtual event that encapsulates its aspirations for the future of local cinema. Featuring performances from a powerhouse of top artists including Lani Misalucha, Gary V, Martin Nievera, Lea Salonga, The Company, Acapelago, and Robert and Isay Alvarez, the industry will push forward to reaching greater heights, exploring uncharted film territories, and crossing borders. For more information and schedule of events, visit fdcp.ph.

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

C4

FASHION AND BEAUTY

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

Extract from the highly prized spice saffron, found in the Skin Moisture pink line, assists in protecting dry and sensitive skin from internal and external aggressors.

Bioten’s Skin Moisture line for normal/ combination skin harnesses the power of quince which is said to help regulate sebum secretion and moisturize the skin.

By Bernadette Lunas

According to international markets development director Petrou Takis, Bioten is currently the top selling brand of the group, which exports in 40 countries around the world. Cosmetics importer iFace Inc. brings to the country two ranges from the brand. The Skin Moisture Normal /Combination Skin or the “Green line” is made with quince extract, a Mediterranean fruit that looks like a hybrid between lemon and pear, which according to Erripi contains a high percentage of polysaccharides which are good film formers and therefore excellent moisturizers. She added quince also helps regulate sebum secretion, ideal for those with oily skin. The Skin Moisture Dry/Sensitive Skin range or the “Pink line,” meanwhile, boasts an ingredient list that includes the highly prized spice, saffron. Saffron extract is ideal for dry and sensitive skin,

Skincare made sustainably, naturally

S

USTAINABLE and natural are two popular buzzwords thrown around by brands who want to appeal to eco-conscious consumers. But oftentimes buzzwords are just that—words, buzzy catchphrases with zero commitment.

Greek company Sarantis aims to live up to the tag it puts on its skincare brand Bioten (bee-yo-ten) by using mostly natural ingredients, doing away with some oft-used chemical compounds, and using recyclable and partly recycled packaging. “We constantly search for what nature has to offer, combining ingredients that are effective in our products,” Kelly Erripi, head of skincare category of Sarantis Group, said during the virtual launch of the brand in the Philippines. Erripi said—and as indicated in the packaging—more than 80 percent of the products were

made of natural origins, intensified by prebiotics, the food of probiotics, dubbed as the “good bacteria,” which help retain a healthy balance of the skin’s microbiome. Explaining how bacteria help in maintaining good skin health, Erripi furthered, “Our skin is covered with bacteria; it’s not bad, it’s called microbiome. A healthy skin has a very good balance of good and bad bacteria.” “When your skin is not healthy, this means the bad bacteria is rising in terms of population. Prebiotics create a balance.”

according to Erripi. “Saffron has high concentration of vitamins and minerals, and rich in antioxidants needed by dry and sensitive skin to cope with internal and external aggressors,” shared Erripi. Products from both lines have prebiotics. They are suitable for ages 20 to 35. The Green line consists of face cream, cleansing gel, and micellar water. The Pink line is composed of face cream, cleansing milk, and micellar water. Aside from its commitment to sustainability, iFace general manager Angelina Goyena said Bioten’s accessible price points make the brand appealing. “They are very suitable for the Filipino market. We felt it’s our responsibility to make this available for the Philippine market.” Bioten Skin Moisture is available at Watsons, The SM Store, and online on Amorfia and Lazada.

Fun and fab at 40

Rustan’s The Beauty Source hosts a Facebook Live talk on beauty featuring (clockwise from top left) Rachel Peters, Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez, Marie Lozano, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Tim Yap, and Janeena Chan.

Digital treats for Beauty Addicts AS OUR digital lives become bigger and more encompassing than ever, people turn to the Internet and social media to meet, shop, and celebrate special milestones—as one would have at, say, the mall. So in celebration of the 8th anniversary of Rustan’s The Beauty Source’s membership program Beauty Addict, the cosmetics and skin care destination, treats its members to deals, discounts, promos, and a bonus interactive talk featuring Filipino personalities. Members purchasing P2,500 worth of products from the newly launched Beauty Addict Portal today until October 31 are entitled to one e-raffle entry for a chance to win the grand prize of P100,000 worth of shopping spree at Rustan’s The Beauty Source or P50,000 (second prize) or P25,000 (third prize) worth of beauty products. Select fragrances meanwhile, are on discount until Sept. 24, including Sisley fragrances (20 percent off), Neal’s Yard Remedies Home Fragrances (15 percent), Calvin Klein perfumes (20-50 percent), Marc Jacobs perfumes (20-50

percent), and Dunhill big bottle fragrances (up to 50 percent). On September 25-30, bath and body, nail, hair, and personal care products are offered at discounted prices. Get 10 percent off on all Phyto products for a minimum purchase of P1,500, 10 percent off on Deborah Lippmann products for a minimum of P1,500, 20 percent off on Neal Yard’s Remedies essential oils, 10 percent off on Elle Basic items for a minimum of P1,500, and up to 50 percent off on all Sally Hansen items. Customers purchasing via Personal Shopper On Call (bit.ly/RTBSShopOnCall) or at any Rustan’s Department Store will get complimentary Beauty Addict membership. Members get five times points when they shop this September. An hour prior to the Beauty Addict portal’s launch on September 3, Rustan’s staged a Facebook Live session hosted by Tim Yap, with guests Tessa PrietoValdes, Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Rachel Peters, Marie Lozano, Mikaela Lagdameo-Martinez, and Janeena Chan, wherein they talked about mindful beauty and “all-clusivity.”

LIFE does not only begin at 40, it continues and becomes more fabulous as years go by, as proven by women who have taken it upon themselves to characterize what turning 40 means for them. Angel Jones, mother of Tony Labrusca, says “age doesn’t stop me from doing things I love and makes me happy.” Because life experiences prepared her for this moment, Aubrey Miles feels freer, unshackled by the mental limitations that held her back in her younger years. “I love this age. I feel that I can achieve more. I can be anything I want with proper supplementation of powerful antioxidants that keep me looking and feeling my best,” shares Miles. Host Pia Guanio-Mago, meanwhile, is enjoying her vitality and confidence even more, notably while she relishes the romantic thrill of spending quality time with her husband. “My husband and I try to do some things together like cooking and playing golf. Even in quarantine, we assign a night in a week for ‘date nights’ at home.” While they may have noticeable changes in the way their body works or feels, these women all take proactive measures that embrace their new reality with a daily program of self-advocacy. Blooming in her fifties, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez says that it is a simple choice to make a commitment to one’s personal wellness. “I make sure that I am consistent with my routines and skin care regimen to achieve results.” Jones sums it up: “Eat healthy, exercise, healthy mindset, proper skin care.” Recognizing that skin care as especially important, given that early signs of aging begin to appear as soon as women hit the age of 30, Guanio-Mago shares, “I try to be very dutiful about my daily beauty regimen. Toner and sunblock after morning shower, cleansing with makeup-removing oils, facial soap, and moisturizer at night.” She adds that she also takes a powerful supplement to reduce signs of aging such as sagging skin, fine lines, and dark spots. “I never forget to drink my two capsules of Myra Ultimate at night.”

Pia Guanio-Mago takes Myra Ultimate at night to fight signs of skin aging. (Photo from @piaguanio_mago/Instagram)

Angel Jones takes care of herself by eating right, exercising, and doing the things she loves.

Myra Ultimate features a potent combination of astaxanthin, lycopene, and vitamin E that reveals beautiful, radiant, youthful skin that lasts. De Leon-Gonzalez shares her skin has changed with regular use of the new supplement. “I have made note of improved skin texture, tightened pores, and reduced lines. My skin feels quite supple and moisturized.”

Actress, fitness trainer, mom, and ultimate ‘plantita’ Aubrey Miles enjoys life in her forties. (Photo from @milesaubrey/Instagram)