Manila Standard - 2020 November 1 - Sunday

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 240 • 2 SECTIONS 8 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Nearly a million residents in the Bicol region scrambled to transfer to evacuation centers as Typhoon Rolly, the world’s strongest so far this year, is expected to make landfall early Sunday morning. AFP and Philippine Coast Guard

Halloween Howler • Rare Signal No. 4 raised • Nearly 1m evacuated

By Jimbo Gulle and Joyce Pañares

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EARLY a million people were evacuated from their homes Saturday as the most powerful typhoon of the year so far barreled toward Bicol region, prompting the state weather bureau to raise the rare Signal Number 4 over Catanduanes, eastern portion of Camarines Sur, and northern Albay.

Metro Manila is squarely in the path of Typhoon Rolly which is poised to make landfall over Catanduanes province early Sunday morning.

In its 11 p.m. update yesterday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Bicol region felt the first violent winds and intense to torrential rainfall of Typhoon Rolly (international name Goni) late Saturday night.

The weather agency said Rolly was just 185 kilometers east of Virac, Catanduanes, as the storm moved west southwest at 25 km/h. Forecasters expect it to make landfall at or near its current peak intensity over Camarines Norte and Sur provinces and over mainland Quezon province by Sunday afternoon.

Halloween howler Signal No. 4 was raised for the first time in decades over the island province of Catanduanes, the eastern portion of Camarines Sur (including Iriga City and the towns of Buhi, Baao, Pili, Naga City, Bombon, Calabanga, Ocampo, Sagnay, Tigaon, Goa, Tinambac, Siruma, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, San Jose, Presentacion, Caramoan), and the northern portion of Albay (Tiwi, Polangui, Malinao, Tabaco City, Malilipot, Bacacay, Rapu-Rapu).

Signal No. 3 remained over Camarines Norte, the rest of Camarines Sur and Albay, Burias and Ticao Islands, Sorsogon, Quezon, Laguna, Rizal, the eastern portion of Batangas including Batangas City and Tanauan City, Marinduque, the northern portion of

TEXAS SURGES PAST 2016 TURNOUT AS BIDEN VIES FOR MAJOR PRIZE

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Oriental Mindoro (Puerto Galera, San Teodoro, Baco, Calapan City, Naujan, Victoria, Pola, Socorro, Pinamalayan), and the northern portion of Romblon (Concepcion, Banton, Corcuera).

Metro Manila is squarely in the path of Rolly, with Signal No. 2 raised in the National Capital Region, most of Central and Southern Luzon, and Samar, Eastern Samar, Antique and Aklan. The rest of Lu-

zon and Visayas were under Signal No. 1.

Strong, but smaller in diameter than Yolanda PAGASA forecasters said Rolly is deemed strong but its diameter is smaller than the destructive Typhoon Yolanda, which killed over 6,000 people when it battered several parts of the country in 2013.

This means Rolly will affect fewer areas than Yolanda, with its violent winds

Sean Connery, James Bond actor, dies at 90 LEGENDARY British actor Sean Connery, best known for playing fictional spy James Bond in seven films, has died aged 90, his family told the BBC on Saturday.

The Scottish actor, who was knighted in 2000, won numerous awards during his decades-spanning career, including an Oscar, three Golden Globes and two Bafta awards.

Tributes immediately began pouring in for Connery who was considered one of the greatest movie stars of his generation.

“How infinitely sad to hear the news Sir Sean Connery has passed away,” stated a message on the Twitter account maintained for fellow Bond actor Roger Moore who died in 2017.

“He and Roger were

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friends for many decades and Roger always maintained Sean was the best ever James Bond. RIP.” Connery claimed his Oscar in 1988 for best supporting actor for his role as an Irish cop in “The Untouchables.”

He also starred in “The Hunt for Red October,” “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” and “The Rock2.

But it is his smooth, Scottish-accented portrayal of the suave spy 007 that he will be best remembered for.

The first actor to utter the unforgettable “Bond, James Bond,” Connery made six official films as novelist Ian Fleming’s creation, giving what many still consider as the definitive portrayal. AFP

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and heavy rainfall to be mostly felt on areas along its path.

It is classified as a category 5 storm by world meteorologists.

Another incoming storm In addition, PAGASA was also tracking the international storm “Atsani,” which would be named “Siony” once it enters the Philippine area of responsibility.

Atsani is a much weaker storm, with speeds of 55 km/h near the center.

It was still 1,655 km east of Luzon outside PAR, moving northwest at 25 km/h.

Storm surges, volcanic mud flows PAGASA said there was a high risk of storm surge of more than three meters (nine feet) over the northern coastal areas of Quezon including Polillo Islands, Camarines Provinces, and Catanduanes.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) had warned of storm surges of 2.1 to 3 meters high (six to nine feet) in the coasts of Manila, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Batangas and Quezon in text alerts it sent across the country.

“It looks like we will have really strong winds, increasing the chances of widespread flooding and landslides,” Mark Timbal, spokesman for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, said in a media interview.

“Storm surges are imminent on our east coast. We are monitoring Mayon and Taal volcanoes for possible volcanic mud flows.”

NDRRMC Director Ricardo Jalad Rolly would be the “strongest storm to hit since Typhoon Yolanda.”

Stay calm, vigilant Malacañang appealed to the public to “stay calm yet vigilant” as Rolly stormed closer.

“We ask the public, especially the residents of potential areas that will be affected by the typhoon to stay calm yet vigilant, check the latest government weather

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM OCT. 31)

380,729 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

1,803 42,462 NEW

ACTIVE

7,221

36

331,046

606

DEATHS

RECOVERIES

NEW

NEW

advisory, listen to the radio or watch television for more information, secure their house and vehicle, and keep their family members and loved ones dry and safe,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

Authorities spent Saturday marshalling rescue vehicles, emergency response teams and relief goods ahead of the typhoon.

COVID-19 complicates evacuations Schools which have been empty since the start of the coronavirus pandemic are being used as emergency shelters as well as government-run evacuation centres and gymnasiums.

“Evacuating people is more difficult at this time because of COVID-19,” Bicol regional civil defense spokesman Alexis Naz told AFP. Mary Ann Echague, 23, and her family fled their home in the coastal city of Legazpi in Bicol to an inland primary school where they were sheltering in a classroom with several other families.

“We fear the wrath of the typhoon,” said Echague, who was with her two children, parents and siblings. They had carried with them a portable stove, tinned meat, instant noodles, coffee, bread, blankets and pillows.

“Each time we’re hit by a typhoon our house gets damaged, since it’s made of wood and galvanised iron roofing,” she said.

“We have always managed. We find a way to get by.” AFP

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Lawmaker hits PhilHealth’s failure to pay Red Cross debt

By Maricel V. Cruz A HOUSE leader on Saturday assailed the Philippine Health Insurance Corp for its failure to pay in full the amount it owes the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).

Assistant Majority Leader and Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas said Philhealth’s failure to fulfill its promise could worsen the public’s disillusionment with the staterun health insurer.

“This is shameful behavior that stains the government’s reputation. PhilHealth has a lot of explaining to do over this mess,” Vargas said.

PRC conducts 30 percent of all COVID 19 testing and its operations are being hampered by PhilHealth’s failure to pay in full its arrears.

Early last week, PhilHealth paid PRC some P500 million, representing half of what the state health insurer owes the humanitarian organization..

Philhealth had earlier vowed to pay its overdue balance to PRC after the Department of Justice issued a legal opinion upholding the legality of their agreement for COVID-19 testing.

PRC chairman, Sen. Richard Gordon said suppliers of materials used in COVID testing were still awaiting payment from the Red Cross and some had withheld delivery of critical supplies.

PRC stopped conducting free COVID-19 tests for returning overseas Filipino workers and frontliners starting October 15 due to Philhealth’s failure to pay its outstanding balance of P930 million. Gordon said the debt had since ballooned to P1.1 billion.

Also affected by PRC’s halt of COVID-19 tests are individuals arriving in airports and seaports, as well as those covered by the Department of Health’s expanded testing protocol.

Vargas said Philhealth’s continued refusal to settle its debt with PRC was resulting in additional costs to both OFWs and the government.

“We already have close to 6,000 OFWs stranded, and more than a thousand expected arrivals daily. Sa bawat araw na stranded sila dahil sa quarantine, gumagastos din ang pamahalaan,” he said.

HPG to patrol Edsa ahead of X’mas season

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Police-Highway Patrol Group will return to assist the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in managing traffic along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue to ease road congestion in the area this Christmas season.

HPG National Capital Region commander Col. Oliver Sy Tanseco said his unit was redeploying its 250 patrollers back to the 23.8-km highway with the program dubbed ‘Enhanced Campaign Plan EDSA’ beginning Nov. 8.

“The distinctive Hagad-HPG will be deployed to ensure the safety and security of motorists and other road users along EDSA,” he said.

Tanseco said the patrollers would also address street crime committed by motorcycle riders in line with the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte to the National Police to stop crimes committed by criminals using motorcycles.

“All police personnel were deputized by the Land Transportation Offie and MMDA for traffic law enforcement and will be providing first aid and basic engine trouble shooting assistance to our motorist,” he said.

Tanseco also said a refresher training of personnel on relevant traffic laws would be given to all personnel including COVID-19 Safety Protocol when responding to any emergencies.

The MMDA agreed to the plan for having additional personnel to man traffic in the area as the holiday season draws near.

Records showed that traffic volume along EDSA rises 15 to 20 percent between November and December.

The HPG took over from the MMDA the traffic control on EDSA in September 2015 following the directive of then President Benigno Aquino III, who believed that the presence of armed traffic enforcers would make a big difference.

Aquino came up with the idea after observing that the MMDA could not solve the road congestion along the highway from Monumento Circle in Caloocan City to President Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard in Pasay City.

ALSO FOR THE LIVING.

A group of children eats on top of a tombstone inside a public cemetery at Brgy. Bagong Purok 48 in Cavite City on October 31, 2020.

JR Josue

MGCQ eyed by Q1 next year as infections reach 380,729

By Willie Casas

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EALTH authorities are hopeful the Philippines, under various levels of lockdown since March 17, will be able to shift to more lenient quarantine protocols by the first quarter of 2021, should local government units be able to sufficiently comply with standards on prevention, contact tracing and treatment.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire. in a public press briefing Saturday, said the government had set milestones and “safeguard conditions” which would serve a local government unit’s metric to shift to modified general community quarantine—the most lenient of the four quarantine classifications in the government’s pandemic response protocol.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier in

the week announced that Metro Manila, the epicenter of the virus, along with six other areas remained under general community quarantine—the second most loose quarantine classification— until the end of November.

New COVID cases The Philippines logged on Saturday 1,803 new coronavirus disease 2019 cases in the country, bringing the total to 380,729, the Department of Health reported.

The DOH also reported 36 new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 7,221.

There are 42,462 active cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines.

There were seven duplicates which were removed from the total case count.

Of these, three were recovered cases.

Moreover, 14 cases previously tagged as recovered were reclassified as deaths.

A total 12 labs were not able to submit their data to the COVID-19 Data Repository System on October 30, 2020.

COVID facilities The Department of Public Works and Highways on Saturday reported the completion of four coronavirus disease facilities with over 300 beds in Metro Manila.

DPWH Secretary and isolation czar Mark Villar said the medical healthcare

facilities for COVID-19 patients and healthcare professionals were in the cities of Parañaque, Makati, and Marikina and the Municipality of Pateros.

The completed quarantine facility is composed of 84 air-conditioned rooms equipped with hospital beds, tables, chairs, and a private comfort room.

Four nursing stations were also included in the project construction to provide a convenient area for health professionals to take a break and recharge.

“As part of the DPWH’s initiative in assisting the ongoing battle against COVID-19 pandemic, we are making sure to efficiently provide patients and our medical professionals such facilities with this project completed earlier than the target date,” Villar said in a statement.

Isolation facility Meanwhile, the DPWH said it had completed and turned over a new 44bed capacity COVID-19 isolation facility to the city government of Makati.

Villar said the makeshift hospital that comes with a nursing station and an Xray room inside Makati Aqua Sports Arena was put up by DPWH Metro Manila 2nd District Engineering Office from 40-foot container vans.

HAUL. Some P1.632 billion worth of illegal drugs were presented by the Bureau of Customs, along with two Chinese nationals who were arrested as claimants of the shabu shipment that arrived in Cabanatuan City late evening of October 30, 2020.

The illegal drugs were misdeclared as ‘work bench tables.’

Norman Cruz

Sokor fugitive arrested after 10-month hunt in Isabela

By Vito Barcelo A SOUTH Korean fugitive wanted for fraud was arrested after a10-month hunt in Isabela province, the Bureau of Immigration said.

Arrested was Song Yangrae, 45, who was nabbed at his residence at Salinungan West, San Mateo town by agents of the Bureau of Immigration Intelligence Division and Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

Song is reportedly the subject of a Red Notice issued by the Interpol in Seoul on January 15, 2016, after defrauding four Korean victims of around $360,000 (KRW435.8 million).

He was likewise found to have been engaging in gainful occupation in the country without the proper permits when he and 11 other Koreans were caught in the act of selling mobile phone accessories in their stalls at the Korea Town along Friendship Highway in Angeles.

He was first arrested in January 2016 but escaped detention last January 2020, and went into hiding, until his whereabouts were discovered through manhunt operations.

According to reports, Song’s last known address was in Lubao, Pampanga but he transferred to San Mateo, Isabela in an attempt to evade authorities. He has

reportedly been hiding in Isabela with his girlfriend for more than 9 months.

In January, the BI ordered a manhunt against Song who escaped from a restroom in Floridablanca, Pampanga while being guarded by agents of the BI’s Warden Facility.

Song was transported on Thursday to the BI’s Main Office in Intramuros while awaiting results of swab testing before being committed to their detention center in Bicutan, Taguig.

He is set to be deported and included in BI’s blacklist for being a fugitive from justice and for violating Section 37(a)(7) of the Philippine Immigration Act.

Two Chinese nabbed for P1.6b smuggled shabu

By Joel E. Zurbano SENATOR Francis Pangilinan on Saturday urged the government to fully enforce the law against undesirable foreign nationals, including Chinese, engaged in criminal activity.

Pangilinan made the appeal following the arrest of James Ong and James Tan in Cabanatuan City where they received a shipment of shabu worth P1.6 billion smuggled from Malaysia.

Pangilinan said after legal deportation proceedings, undesirable aliens should be immediately deported to their country of origin.

“Since it has been established by testimonial evidence that tens of thousands of these Chinese nationals entered the country through illegal means then they should immediately be arrested and deported,” Pangilinan said.

“Illegal nationals take away jobs for Filipinos, rob the government of taxes, and possibly put our national security at risk,” he added.

Joint operatives from the Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group arrested Tan and Ong and seized the 240 kilos of shabu at a storage facility around 11:30 p.m.

Based on cargo manifest, Ywlee 87 Trading of Subang Jaya, Selangar, Malaysia exported and described the shipment as “Work Bench Tables”.

The shipment arrived at the Customs bonded warehouse near the airport on Oct. 24 and consigned to Allejam International Trading in Manila.

Customs airport examiners placed the cargo under x-ray scanning and 100 percent physical examination and discovered the wrapped prohibited substance.

The Customs Port of NAIA immediately coordinated with PDEA and the Interdiction Task Force to conduct the controlled delivery operation that reached the province of Nueva Ecija, resulting in the arrest of the two foreigners and the seizure of the shipment.

Commonwealth Act 613, as amended

by Republic Act 503, provides the provisions on deportation of aliens.

“Foreign nationals who have circumvented immigration laws in connivance with corrupt immigration employees have forfeited their right to stay in the country and therefore should be arrested and immediately deported,” Pangilinan said.

In addition, all foreign nationals proven to have committed illegal acts such as violations of our laws may be blacklisted, arrested, and deported, according to the senator, who is also a lawyer.

In 2019, the Bureau of Immigration arrested over 2,000 foreigners, most of whom were illegally staying and working Chinese nationals.

Earlier this week, Pangilinan filed Proposed Senate Resolution 558, urging the Senate to investigate, in aid of legislation, the national security implications of the entry of around four million Chinese into the country since 2017.

Pangilinan said there should be no letup in the drive against illegal foreign nationals, stressing that the number of deportees could be higher if there was an intensified effort to catch and prosecute them The bureau turned over the seized illegal drugs to the PDEA for further profiling and case build-up against the importers and other responsible persons, and inquest of the two Chinese nationals for violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 in relation to Section 1401 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

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Race to find Turkey quake survivors, 27 dead

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ESCUERS raced against the clock Saturday to save people buried under rubble as hundreds spent a terrified night in tents after a powerful earthquake claimed 27 lives in Turkey and Greece.

Rescuers search for survivors in a collapsed building after a powerful earthquake struck Turkey’s western coast and parts of Greece, in Izmir, in the early hours of Oct. 31, 2020. The quake hit Turkey and Greece on October 30, killing at least 26 people, levelling buildings and creating a sea surge that flooded streets near Izmir. (Inset) Rescuers lift the body of a victim in a body bag into an emergency vehicle. AFP

Texas surges past 2016 turnout as Biden vies for major prize VINCENT Siewit just dropped off his vote at a polling place in Houston— one of nine million people in Texas who have already voted, racing past the state’s presidential election turnout from 2016.

The 30-year-old voted in the historically conservative state, where polls this time around suggest Democratic candidate Joe Biden has a fighting chance of winning.

America’s other candidates: From Kanye to Phil Collins THEY include Kanye West, a former child actor, a libertarian and a prohibitionist named Phil Collins.

A list of minor candidates are also on the November 3 US presidential election ballot beyond those from the two major parties -- some more serious than others.

Kanye West The music and fashion troublemaker announced his candidacy for the White House on Twitter on July 4, America’s Independence Day. Under the label of the “Birthday Party,” he only met the criteria to appear on the ballot in 12 of the 50 states and therefore mathematically has no chance of being elected president.

The campaign by Kim Kardashian’s husband, who suffers from bipolar disorder, has raised more questions than enthusiasm.

Supporters of Donald Trump are hoping that the 43-year-old rapper, a former supporter of the Republican president, will be able to pull a few Black votes from Joe Biden.

Libertarian Party The Libertarian Party is, far behind the Democratic and Republican heavyweights, the third political force in the country. Defender of individual freedoms, free trade and minimal legislation, it is the only “third party” to appear on the ballot in all 50 states. AFP

“I thought there would be lines, to be honest, and didn’t want to miss it,” Siewit said, who hopped in his car and drove five minutes to cast his ballot.

“Definitely seems like there’s been a lot more media and socialization to get people out to vote.”

Larger than France and home to 29 million people, Texas is the second most populous state in the US after California but has voted Republican in every presi-

dential election since 1980.

To the winner of the vast state go 38 electoral votes—a large prize and a possibly decisive bloc for Biden if he were to gain it.

The number of registered voters in the state has risen 12 percent since 2016 -more than 1.9 million additional people, many of them Latinos.

With the electorate changing and a high turnout over the last few days, Democrats

are dreaming of a Biden win, a possible earthquake for US politics that would shake up the political map.

Biden’s running mate Kamala Harris canvassed in Texas on Friday, but the presidential candidate himself has chosen to spend his time in other swing states in the last days of the campaign.

Republican president Donald Trump has also chosen to stay away and hold rallies elsewhere. AFP

CALAVERAS. A view of giant figures of skulls (calaveras) made of cardboard at Santa Cecilia neighborhood prior to the Day of the Dead in Mexico City, on October 30, 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic. AFP

Journalist murdered in Mexico, sixth this year A JOURNALIST has been shot dead in crime-ridden northern Mexico, authorities said Friday, the sixth such murder this year in one of the world’s most dangerous countries for reporters.

Chihuahua state governor Javier Corral condemned the “cowardly” killing of Arturo Alba Medina in Ciudad Juarez near

the US border.

Corral said on Twitter that he had told prosecutors to ensure the perpetrators are punished, adding: “Justice will be done.”

The 49-year-old journalist and television news show host was assassinated a few minutes after the end of his program

on Thursday night, according to media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

“This was clearly an execution and his media colleagues where he worked are afraid and don’t know the reason for the crime,” Balbina Flores, RSF representative in Mexico, told AFP. AFP

Armenia PM asks Putin to start security talks amid Karabakh conflict ARMENIAN Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has formally asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to begin “urgent” consultations on providing security amid a conflict with Azerbaijan, the foreign ministry said Saturday.

The announcement, which further raises the prospect of an escalation in the conflict, came after Armenia and Azerbaijan failed to agree a fresh ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during talks in Geneva on Friday.

Russia has a military base in Armenia and has a defense treaty with Yerevan.

“The prime minister of Armenia has asked the Russian president to begin urgent consultations with the aim of determining the kind and amount of aid which the Russian Federation can provide Armenia to ensure its security,” the ministry said in a statement.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a bitter conflict over Karabakh since Armenian separatists backed by Yerevan seized control of the mountainous province in a 1990s war that left 30,000 people dead.

The current clashes broke out on September 27 and fighting has persisted

despite the repeated international attempts to secure a ceasefire.

Russia has previously said that its defence pact with Armenia does not extend to the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

But Pashinyan in his letter to Putin said that hostilities were getting closer to Armenia’s borders and reiterated that Azerbaijan’s ally Turkey was backing Baku, according to the statement.

He requested Moscow’s help, invoking the two countries’ close ties and a 1997 treaty on friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance. AFP

CENTENARY.

A woman poses with a decoration at the entrance of Meiji Shinto Shrine to mark 100 years since its founding in Tokyo on October 30, 2020.

AFP

The 7.0 magnitude quake killed 25 people and injured 804 on Turkey’s western coast after it struck Friday afternoon, with its epicenter off the coastal town of Seferihisar in Izmir province.

Also killing two teenagers on their way home from school in Greece, it caused a mini-tsunami on the Aegean island of Samos and a sea surge that turned streets into rushing rivers in one Turkish coastal town.

In Bayrakli, Turkish families and friends looked on in agony, exhaustion and hope as workers painstakingly went through the rubble of two buildings which were completely flattened by the quake.

Just five minutes across town, worried crowds watched as a black bag was taken away from another collapsed building in the early hours of Saturday.

“Let me see who it is!” one man shouted.

In small green spaces close to the damaged buildings, the municipality set up large white tents for the survivors while the health ministry’s medical rescue teams offered smaller tents for frightened families.

Throughout the night, hot soup and water were available for those waiting outside as the temperature fell.

Azize Akkoyun watched as the rescuers worked.

“Those curtains, they belonged to my daughter’s in-laws,” Akkoyun told AFP, as she waited for news.

“We will wait all night. God willing they will come out alive,” she said, adding they were unable to reach them by phone.

Residents said Bayrakli, with a population of more than 300,000, was a fast-developing district with new buildings popping up on the outskirts of the Aegean resort city of Izmir.

A few steps away, the smashing of concrete, heavy machinery and dust filled the air except for the moments when everything stopped in the hope of hearing a longed-for call for help from a survivor.

As Cemalettin Enginyurt, 51, and his family settled inside their white tent, he described feeling “helpless.”

The retired soldier said his family’s home suffered “serious” cracks and he feared people being unable to tell if their homes were fit to return to.

“As it currently is and with the risk of aftershocks, we decided the solution was to stay outside. Izmir has a mild climate, we’ll be alright in the short term but we’re not sure about the long term,” he said.

Hope grew that more survivors could be found following reports in state media of a 53-year-old and 62-year-old rescued some 17 hours after the quake.

The government’s disaster agency AFAD said 100 people have been pulled out alive.

The latest disaster will renew fears over when Istanbul will be hit by a big earthquake after the devastating 7.4-magnitude one in 1999 in Izmit, western Turkey.

Some 17,000 people died then, including 1,000 in Istanbul.

This is the second powerful earthquake to hit Turkey this year, after one in the eastern city of Elazig killed more than 30 people in January.

According to the government’s disaster agency, 743 of those injured were in Izmir with the rest in nearby Aydin, Manisa and Balikesir provinces.

The earthquake was felt as far away as Athens and Istanbul.

There were 470 aftershocks following the quake including 35 that were above four in magnitude, AFAD reported. AFP

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Business

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

Filipino-French couple cuts ‘pilapil’ out of rice farms

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FILIPINO-FRENCH couple is redesigning the rice sector in Leyte province, by cutting “pilapil” or farm ridge, chemicals and middlemen out of the old system of farming and trading.

Google Philippines head of government affairs and public policy Yves Gonzalez

IPOPHL director-general Rowel Barba

New app protects IP and trademark

By Othel V. Campos AIMING to reach out to more creators and innovators and provide them an easier way to secure their intellectual property assets, the IP Office of the Philippines has launched a mobile application called “IPOPHL Mobiliz.”

“Given that many of us spend most of our time on mobile, this development will help IPOPHL reach out to a wider audience and provide a convenient and faster way for securing intellectual property assets and further integrate IP in innovative, creative and entrepreneurial processes,” said IPOPHL director-general Rowel Barba said.

Available on Google Play and the App Store, IPOPHL Mobiliz facilitates all IPOPHL services, from filing to registration and raising reports or complaints against infringers. Users can also get updates on the status of their application and disputes and view schedules on IP learning courses.

The launch of the app, according to Barba, is “very timely” amid the recent IPOPHL policy that pushes IP applications to be strictly made online, ensuring the safety of stakeholders and its employees.

The IPOPHL Mobiliz is also seen to unload half of the daily calls the office receives with regard to basic concerns and questions as the app provides an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide for users to enjoy IPOPHL’s services.

This is IPOPHL’s latest digital upgrade in a series of efforts in past months to provide a contactless and user-friendly experience to stakeholders amid the pandemic. IPOPHL Mobiliz is part of the agency’s new and broader agenda which will be implemented during Barba’s term.

Anti-Red Tape Authority directorgeneral Jeremiah Belgica recognized IPOPHL’s mobile app and how it can spur innovation and creativity amid the pandemic.

“IPOPHL is not only protecting the dreamers, it is making it more accessible to them and telling them that challenging times like this, it is not only sufficient to survive but also to thrive. My sincerest hope is that with this mobile application, it will open the floodgates of Filipino creativity and the creative mindset...to challenge the pandemic and the many other challenges to come as well as to continue toward digital economy,” he said.

He also encouraged others to follow in IPOPHL’s success in streamlining services for a smoother transition to automation.

“Let us replicate IPOPHL’s effort, in that they see the point, the compassion and the direction of our president

Chen Yi Agventures founders Patrick François Renucci and Rachel Marjorie Tan-Renucci

“You can make a lot of money in rice farming, even with one hectare, but we need to increase the size of the farm,” says Patrick François Renucci, a French businessman who was awarded Filipino citizenship by Congress in March this year for transforming rice farms in Leyte province into sustainable and profitable ventures.

One of his novel ideas was to remove “pilapil” or “tagaytay”—the narrow ridge that separates the rice plots and control the flow of water. He says that by removing these mini-dikes, the planting area will be bigger.

His idea actually worked, helping farmers in Alangalang, Leyte province achieve more yield from one hectare than they did before. Along with other forms of assistance, rice farmers enrolled in the Renucci partnership program saw their harvest increase two to three times and their income climb by more than 10 times.

Patrick and his wife Rachel Marjorie Tan show how Filipino rice farmers can make money despite the influx of imported rice from Thailand and Vietnam under the Rice Tariffication regime.

They are the incorporators of Chen Yi Agventures—a fully-integrated and sustainable rice business that helped Leyte farmers recover after the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda in November 2013.

Chen Yi Agventures is the company behind “Dalisay”—the premium, chemical-free, unmixed, clean and aromatic rice brand sold in major supermarkets

in Metro Manila such as SM, Robinsons, Rustan’s, Shopwise and Puregold.

It is also used by more than 50 restaurants, including Flame Restaurant at Discovery Primea in Makati City.

Chef Luis Chikiamco of Flame Restaurant compares Dalisay to Japanese rice. “The taste is very clean, and the smell is so fragrant. It is very appetizing,” he says.

In fact, Dalisay Rice was awarded third place in the World Best Rice Competition during the World Rice Conference in November 2019.

The couple, who lived in Paris before deciding to migrate to Leyte in 2015, invested P1.7 billion in Chen Yi Agventures which developed the most technologically advanced rice processing center in Southeast Asia that integrates seed procurement, planting, farm management, harvesting and rice processing.

“When we arrived in Leyte, after typhoon Yolanda, we decided to dedicate our life to trying to uplift the farmers from the devastation of Yolanda. Given the situation of the rice industry, we would like to produce world-class rice for the Filipino people,” says Rachel.

“While our facilities were under construction, we organized 3,000 to 4,000 farmers and provided them with loans.

We mechanized land preparations, planting and harvesting. By taking them to land prep, planting and harvesting and mechanizing the whole process, we learned about rice farming because we were in the field working with the

Bria offers RFO homes in Pampanga AMID the threat of the deadly but unseen pandemic, people naturally seek stability and security at home with their loved ones. Many retreat into the safety of their homes—a place that serves as a buffer from chaotic world outside.

More than six months into the pandemic, Filipinos have quickly adapted to a digital lifestyle. Most have gone into work-from-home mode. Students are also coping with the challenges of distance learning. Families are opting for food and other essential goods de- Once the paperwork is done and payments livered by online sellers. are made, one can immediately move into a ready-for-occupancy unit at Bria Homes The home is reclaiming its status as Magalang in Pampanga province. the center of every Filipino family’s life. With the distractions of modern their priorities. living—shopping malls, entertainment Instead of spending their hard-earned and leisure hubs, the night scene—los- money on superficial pursuits, a great majoring their allure, Filipinos are realigning ity of them now aspire to invest in affordable

house and lot packages located in safe and secure residential communities.

This emerging market is what’s driving top housing developer Bria Homes to build more projects and make home ownership a reality for all Filipinos. With more than 50 projects already in place across progressive towns and cities in the Philippines, a Bria home is now considered their ‘home of choice’, not only for their aestheticallydesigned houses but also for their wholesome and serene communities.

For prospective buyers in Central Luzon looking for a quick and easy way to move into brand-new houses, there’s Bria Homes in Magalang, Pampanga. Just 35 minutes away from Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, Bria Homes Magalang offers affordable ready-foroccupancy house-and-lot packages.

farmers for four years,” she says.

From 2015 to 2019, the couple witnessed the shortfall in planting practices and learned new ways to improve the system. “We mastered the whole value chain, from planting with the farmers, increasing their income to processing in a very high-tech facility which is the most advanced in Southeast Asia to distribution and sales to the supermarket. So we really controlled the entire value chain and that’s what enabled us to produce worldclass rice,” says Rachel.

Today, about 700 Leyte farmers supply rice to Chen Yi Agventures which sells it under “Dalisay” brand in Metro Manila.

The company’s rice processing center in Barangay Mudburon, Alingalang town is centralized and fully-automated to control room temperature at 21 degrees, keeping palay freshly harvested for more than a year. It can process up to 50,000 metric tons of rice annually.

It employs Japanese technology that purifies air emitted into the dust room, purging dust and dirt from the drying and milling process.

Chen Yi Agventures also introduced the Renucci partnership program, which organizes farmers and provides them with low-interest loans in the forms of fertilizers from Norway, high-quality inbred seeds and hightech planting and harvesting equipment.

Patrick says what makes Dalisay different is its natural purity, as it is not mixed or repacked with imported rice and is not sprayed with chemicals.

Farmers use RC 300—a local rice variety known for its aromatic properties.

Under the program, they buy rice directly from the enrolled farmers, thereby removing the middlemen and traders. “There were so many layers in between—the middlemen and the traders. That’s why we decided to set up our program,” he says.

He says at present, Chen Yi Agventures produces rice to meet the demand of supermarkets in Metro Manila but plans to export the grain soon.

Patrick says he believes they are on the right track to improving the rice sector in the Philippines.

“We see that we can help change.

Because now we understand…We invite other millers to try to replicate our model, to do outstanding rice for the Filipinos, no chemicals and help the farmers increase their income. There is a huge impact to the economy of the Philippines. We want the money to stay in the Philippines, so the benefit will go to the farmers if we buy their rice,” he says. Roderick T. dela Cruz

Google PH provides free ads to MSMEs

GOOGLE Philippines teamed up with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Tourism to provide these agencies free ad credits that they can use not only to help increase awareness on COVID-19 but also to help uplift the livelihood of micro, small and medium enterprises affected by the pandemic.

Google Philippines head of government affairs and public policy Yves Gonzalez said the company’s efforts in recent months were focused on improving web searches and promoting the new tabs where MSMEs are given virtual space to promote on Google and YouTube for free.

“The team dispensed Google Search ad credits to enable the Philippine government to increase awareness for its COVID-19 response efforts. Today, we’re happy to share that in addition to our initial government agency partners Department of Health, the Presidential Communications Operations Office and the Department of Education, we now also have search campaigns running from both the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Tourism. This is in line with Google’s efforts to help the country towards economic recovery,” he said.

Google Shopping Tab previously had paid ads listing available for online sites. Free listings are currently available on that section. Scrolling down the tabs would be free listings, enough to encourage more Filipino companies to actually start listing their products so that they’re discoverable on search.

Google said these benefits of technology could be harnessed for the safe rebuilding of the economy and improvement of lives of millions of Filipinos.

Beyond digital upskilling training, Google aims to help small businesses by inspiring them through stories of hope from the MSME community.

Through the MSME Caravan program, MSMEs will be guided on how to grow their business efficiently through a wide array of digital tools such as Google My Business and Primer app as well as access to experts.

The training program has reached more than 14,000 business owners this year. MSMEs interested to join the training can register through the campaign website.

Collaborating with the DTI since early this year, Google has been participating in several online webinars including the first Control+BIZ: Reboot Now! webinar in April, Series 2 of the same webinar in May, Series 3 featuring tourism in July, Series 4 featuring food tourism in September and the Youth Entrepreneurship Program in October. YEP aims to help young Filipino entrepreneurs start up their own business or digitalize their existing business. Othel V. Campos

Businesses’ shift to digital could become permanent WITH the Philippines remaining under varying degrees of quarantine due to COVID-19, a new Economist Intelligence Unit study for TransUnion finds businesses’ shift to digital could be permanent.

“COVID-19 has dramatically accelerated digital transformation with 78 percent of Philippine executives surveyed as part of our study saying their organization has changed their digital transaction process due to the pandemic,” said Pia Arellano, TransUnion Philippines president and CEO. “But all of this digital progress will be wiped out if we can’t remove these barriers to building bilateral digital trust. For instance, 70 percent of Philippine executives in the study who said their company

changed their digital transaction process as a result of the pandemic experienced glitches,” she said.

Nearly 84 percent of Philippine and 85 percent of global executives surveyed as part of the study said they believe smooth transactions are “essential to business survival” rather than merely a competitive edge during and after the pandemic.

The report, “New Dimensions of Change: Building Trust in a Digital Consumer Landscape,” included responses from 1,610 executives in Brazil, Canada, Chilwe, China, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, India, the Philippines, South Africa, the UK and the US, including 115 Philippine executives.

Youth & Culture B1

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020

Bernadette Lunas, Editor

manilastandardlife@gmail.com

@manilastandardlife

@MStandardLIFE

Santa on a bike

59-year-old cyclist brings cheer to kids

REAL-LIFE SANTA CLAUS. Joey Belo, a 59-year-old-cyclist, pedals around the city with his makeshift bike camper to distribute bags of toys and snacks to street children, which he documents and uploads on his YouTube channel, inspiring others to support his advocacy.

H

E DOESN’T have reindeers and sleigh, but he has a makeshift bicycle camper which he uses to deliver happiness to street children.

He is Joey Belo, also known by his YouTube channel Bike Camper JBelo, who goes around the country to surprise marginalized kids with bags of toys.

Even before Joseph Allain Eliseo’s post went viral in September, the 59-year-old cyclist has been embarking on this advocacy of his, using his earnings from ad placements on his YouTube channel to buy the gifts he gives to kids. Eliseo encountered Belo while he was walking along Montillano Street in Muntinlupa City on Sept. 19.

The cyclist handed Eliseo a small f lyer promoting his channel, and when the latter found out about the former’s advocacy, he encouraged other netizens to subscribe to the “Pinoy Santa Claus.”

“Sir Joey easily caught my interest because of his soft-spoken and kindhearted nature. Despite his age, he is still very eager to help people, especially the street children,” shares Eliseo.

When Eliseo posted Belo’s photo and story on his feed, he shared that he was glad because he was able to reach and inspire thousands of people.

He says, “I believe that his advocacy of helping street children is awesome.

As the gap between rich and poor becomes wider and wider these days, it amazes me that there is a man who is willing to take risks to be part of the solution in his own way.”

Since Belo’s fateful encounter with Eliseo, his humble channel has grown to have more than 260,000 subscribers, as of this writing.

“I am really grateful because I didn’t imagine that this would happen to me. Now when I bike, there are people who would stop and greet me.

The support is really overwhelming,” enthuses Belo.

How he started

Before he became a “Santa on a bike,” Belo shares he has been fond of biking since he was a child. And the advocacy he does was inspired by his experience as a kid.

He relates, “I was motivated to start this advocacy because I also once lived in the streets. Batang kalye din ako noon, at hindi ako madalas mag-stay sa bahay kasi maliit lang tirahan namin noon (I also used to roam the streets before, because I didn’t stay much at our house because it was small).”

His journey started by creating an improvised camper bike made of recycled scrap materials from junk shops. With his makeshift van and GoPro Hero 8, he treks around Metro Manila for long days and documents and uploads his experiences along the road on his channel.

He has been to numerous destinations and brought smiles to kids in Calamba, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal.

Aside from delivering toys to street children, Belo says he wants his YouTube channel to be a legacy that he can leave for his children. “I really like watching on YouTube, and I’ve been planning to start a channel since last year. I want to post videos for my kids to watch because the posts stay there for a long time, parang legacy ko na.”

His kids often assist in editing and uploading videos on his channel. The usual routine is that he gives them his camera once he gets home and they filter through the recordings and edit them to become a vlog. Currently, they have produced and posted 28 videos on the channel.

How it’s going

As his story made rounds online, Belo says he has received generous donations of toys and financial support for other goods for the kids, in fact some of his videos feature gifts sponsored by supporters.

“I make sure to document every time I give toys to the kids so they can see where their donations go. The continuous support from people really warms my heart.”

With Christmas fast-approaching, he

is determined to bring even more joy and give presents, saying he wants to also be able to give educational and story books, snacks, and even face masks to the children.

His journey is not ending anytime soon. The cyclist shares he wants to reach more children and travel to the Bicol Region. He is also hopeful that more people will join in his advocacy, saying, “Iba yung pakiramdam kapag nakita mo yung ngiti sa mga bata. Sa mga gusto na tumulong din, kahit in your own little ways, gawin mo. Kahit

sa una walang susuporta sayo, wag ka matakot (It truly is a rewarding feeling whenever you see the kids smile.

To those who want to help even in your own little ways, do it. Even if you have no support in the beginning, don’t be afraid). Reach out to them and they will thank you endlessly.”

To those who want to help Belo as he ventures to more cities and gives toys to more kids, send a message to him at www.facebook.com/bikecamperjbelo or joeybelo368@gmail.com.

Shoppers can donate to Shopee Bayanihan: Pamaskong Pambata charity drive by purchasing donation vouchers.

Shopee launches fundraiser for underprivileged children E-COMMERCE platform Shopee enjoins partner brands and shoppers to give back this holiday season through its charity drive.

The “Shopee Bayanihan: Pamaskong Pambata,” launched in conjunction with its 11.11 and 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, aims to raise awareness and donations for underprivileged children in the Philippines.

The fundraising initiative will support 11 local foundations geared toward empowering impoverished children, namely Mano Amiga Philippines; World Vision Philippines; Young Focus for Educa-

tion and Development Foundation, Inc.; Fundlife International, Inc.; GMA Kapuso Foundation, Inc.; Save the Children Philippines; Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, Inc.; Project Pearls, Inc.; Project Smile Philippines; Kythe Foundation, Inc.; and PGH Medical Foundation, Inc. “As part of our vision to make e-commerce for everyone, we want to ensure that the future generation has the opportunity to contribute to and succeed in the digital economy,” said Martin Yu, associate director at Shopee Philippines.

From November 9 to December 12, shoppers can look out for special Shopee Livestreams, co-created by Shopee and leading brands to bring users exclusive deals while giving back to those in need.

For every purchase made, participating brands will donate proceeds or the same product to selected foundations.

Leading brands will also launch exclusive charity collections, available only on Shopee from Nov. 9 to Dec. 12.

Digital partners will offer a wide range of vouchers on sale for charity. All proceeds will go to the 11 charity partners.

Is it the right time to make a career change?

WITH the uncertainty brought by the pandemic, job seekers, displaced professionals, and even those who have a job may be rethinking their careers and considering best possible options that will provide more job stability The Association of Psychological Science’s recent series of roundtables reveals threatening situations prompt people to behave conservatively—the opposite of what people actually need to be doing at such difficult times which is to be flexible and adapt to what the situation is calling for.

According to recent insights revealed

by JobStreet, more employees are reevaluating their jobs and have begun thinking differently about what they really want to do with their lives.

“Your career is one of the saving graces during the pandemic, and reinventing it in the midst of COVID-19 is one way to keep motivated, and may

also contribute to experiencing a sense of fulfillment right now,” said Mirei Magallona, Telus International Philippines country vice president.

“Times are unpredictable, so it’s advisable to make well-informed decisions to improve your skill set, staying happy and productive, as well as finding other avenues to help you grow in what you do.”

Magallona shares a few tips to consider if you are reflecting on your career in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic.

ter to manage the risks and maximize your available opportunities by looking within your organization first.

Is there a role that you would like to explore? Realizing what you want will help you discuss with your HR partner or immediate supervisor how to find ways to transition to a new role or add projects that you want that are more aligned with your key strengths and interests.

Realize your dream

To make that career decision, you need to understand the skills and experiences that you have.

Consider taking courses to acquire much needed work skills. Skills needed for jobs in line with your field often overlap. Take stock of where you are and seek to update yourself through further learning and work experiences, whether it’s working with other teams, reporting to a second mentor to learn a new skill, shadowing colleagues who are experts in a particular discipline, or even volunteering to experience something new first-hand.

In Telus International Philippines, for instance, team members are welltrained and provided proper career coaching and road mapping on a regular basis so they are fully equipped to take on the tasks and challenges of their role.

What is it that you really want to do? Imagine a range of possibilities for you to grow not only career-wise, but also personally and holistically. Determine your key strengths to help you tap into your dreams and give you that purpose and meaning.

An immediate reaction would be to leave your current role, but with the status of the job market these days, it’s bet-

Recognize what you bring to the table

Create your personal brand

Experts say making well-informed decisions is vital during uncertain times.

After recognizing what you can offer as a professional, you have to show why they should choose you. Show your value—build up your body of work or portfolio to create a strong case for yourself. Fortify your LinkedIn profile or your resume so it reflects all your proof points as a valuable talent.

Recent insights reveal the pandemic has led many employees to reevaluate their jobs and begin thinking differently about what to do with their lives.

Talk it out

Self-reflection is vital. This practice can be done by talking with whom you are comfortable—be it your immediate leaders or a friend—who can respond, sympathize, and share their

own experiences.

While face-to-face conversations are quite a challenge during these times, you may consider working with a career coach online or joining online groups that meet regularly to share plans and updates.

HEY, YOUTH! SHARE your unpublished essays with the readers of Manila Standard. Chosen essays will be published in the Young Life corner that comes out every Sunday.

This space is open for young writers, aged 13-29 years old.

Send your essay (maximum of 800 words) with photo/s, if available, to manilastandardlife@gmail.com with the subject: “Young Life - (title of your essay)” along with a brief description of yourself.

B2

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020

Joel D. Lacsamana, Editor E-mail: jdlacsamana@gmail.com

Home/Design Lamudi, Avida Land link up ONLINE property platform, Lamudi, recently partnered with real estate developer Avida Land to tap a wider audience for the latter through a deeper online presence.

Ayala Land’s mid-range brand can promote its products to a wider audience, even those based abroad.

Buyers can choose among properties listed based on their lifestyle needs, location and aesthetic preferences, and budget. From house and lot developments to lot-only projects, condominium units, and even preselling units, OFWs will find a range of Avida Land offerings on the Lamudi platform.Avida Land’s Aldea Grove Estates, Avida Towers Ardane, and Serin East Tagaytay (Seen here) are currently available for inquiries.

Lamudi believes that together with Avida Land, they can propel the property industry forward, serve the market better, and make homes more accessible, even amid the current crisis, and the challenges ahead.

Rigging em’ right

THE construction sector has begun to recover with the resumption of infrastructure projects in the country.

This includes wearing of PPEs, social distancing, proper sanitation, and medical clearance from safety officers.

Logistics provider JP Marzan Project Ventures Inc., believes safety comes above all else, especially when construction workers are rigging heavy equipment. Guided by best practices borne from decades of experience, JP Marzan lists some important tips on safely and efficiently doing rigging operations.

Work with qualified personnel:every worker at the site should be aware and trained about rigging safety, and should know about the procedures and about the equipment they will handle.

Inspect and document:before any lifting project, workers must ensure proper equipment handling procedures to check if materials are safe. Only use machinery working in top condition. Know your rigging equipment:every rigger should know how much weight their machine can lift, which they can find on the manufacturer’s load charts in the operator’s manual. Following these tips will help ensure efficiency and safety when operating rigging equipment.

Another way is to find reliable partners that will help provide expert advice and services, not only about rigging, but the construction project as a whole. Learn more about JP Marzan Ventures, Inc. at www.jpmarzan.com.

REEVALUATING LIFE’S PRIORITIES. The new normal has pushed us to reevaluate our priorities in life. We’ve come to realize that the home is a safe space where we can move freely, work efficiently, and feel most secure. The Residences at Commonwealth by Century in Quezon City, is one such project. A sprawling gated community that features eight mid-rise towers, open spaces, and family-friendly amenities, Commonwealth offers expansive condo with usable balconies that are ideal for couples, small families, and young professionals. #CenturyAtYourService can help guide you through an online customer journey which involves learning about the property, taking a virtual tour of the units, and talking to an agent – all from the comforts of your home. \To learn more about Commonwealth by Century and see the virtual tours, log on to www.commonwealthbycentury.com.

SMELLING THE MIMOSAS. Despite the ongoing pandemic, Filinvest Mimosa+ has demonstrated resiliency by constantly expanding its portfolio of establishments and developments in the Central Luzon area. Among Filinvest Mimosa+’s plans for future developments is the expansion of its Workplus office campus, the Golf Ridge private estate (Seen in photo), which makes the most of the the area’s rolling, wooded landscape, and the township’s mall — Mimosa Filinvest Lifemalls. Complementing the growing office campus with one of a kind retail experience, the latter will be the center of dining, shopping, entertainment, and other recreational activities. The 201-hectare township project in Pampanga is accessible at the Clark Freeport Zone.

SELF-SUFFICIENT COMMUNITIES IN DEMAND. I-Land, the property arm of ISOC Holdings, a Filipino conglomerate headed by construction innovator, Michael Cosiquien, recently its maiden residential condominium project, I-Land Residences Sucat in Parañaque City. The development is a LEED-certified community composed of six mid-rise buildings across two hectares. Cosiquien claimed that 65 percent of I-Land Residences Sucat’s land area is devoted to open spaces. “Sustainability is a key value of ISOC Holdings,” Cosiquien told the Manila Standard. “COVID-19 has emphasized the necessary shift in design and construction concepts to allow Filipinos to thrive in an increasingly evolving world, and to live in the best possible way.” ISOC Holdings is planning to build a similar residential condominium development in Cloverleaf, Quezon City. The project is slated for launch before the end of the year. The company’s I-Land’s portfolio includes office and commercial projects such as I-Land Bay Plaza, a 12-story mixed-use building along Macapagal Boulevard in Pasay City with approximately 20,000 square meters of commercial office and retail space. I-Land also bagged an agreement to develop a seven-hectare property at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

Sustainable Community Building MEGAWIDE’S corporate social responsibility arm, Megawide Foundation, recently launched its latest sustainable community building project with Green Antz Builders and theLocal Government Unit (LGU) of Taytay, Rizal.

Eco-friendly waiting sheds located along the streets of Kalayaan Park and Club Manila East road will be made of recycled concrete materials from Megawide’s Taytay precast and batching plants.

The locations were identified together with the Taytay Mayor George Ricardo “Joric” Gacula II. “Megawide partnered with Green Antz to introduce innovations that can help reduce industrial waste,” said Megawide’s AVP for corporate affairs Jason Torres said.

“The project was able to recycle two tons of concrete waste from our plants and divert 100 kilos of plastic wastes from communities that could have ended up in a landfill.”

Green Antz used Megawide’s

concrete wastes to produce recycled products such as Eco Bricks and Eco Cast for the pillars of the waiting sheds and Eco Boards for the benches. At the launch of the waiting sheds project were from

left to right: Megawide HSE manager Chris Tamayo; Taytay Mayor George “Joric” R. Gacula II; Green Antzpresident Engr. Rommel Benig; and Megawide Foundation CSR program manager Angelo Tapia

Entertainment

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020

B3

Nickie Wang, Editor; E-mail: nickie.standard@ gmail.com

LEGASPI TWINS SHARE LOCKDOWN experiences and breakthroughs

F

OR Legaspi twins Mavy and Cassy, time is precious.

Even in quarantine, the two make sure that every moment counts as they juggle their career, studies, and personal lives.

They are currently taping Sarap, ‘Di Ba? Bahay Edition at home together with their mom Carmina Villarroel and dad Zoren Legaspi, who is also the director for the show’s new format.

Cassy shared a few bits of their experience adapting to work in the new normal, “Sarap ’Di Ba? Bahay Edition feels like a training ground for Mavy and I. Direk Z (tatay) trains us to speak in Tagalog more and with “technical stuff” when it comes to the show. I feel for my dad kasi alam ko kung pagod kaming tatlo, what more my dad who is behind and in front of the cam.”

She is also gearing up for her role in the upcoming GMA primetime series First Yaya, where she will be acting alongside Gabby Concepcion, Pancho Magno, and Sanya Lopez. For this project, Cassy will be paired with JD Domagoso.

“My prep for First Yaya is continuing to workout and eating healthier as much as possible. I also started drinking vitamins to boost my immune system so that I’m stronger once taping starts. I’m watching Filipino movies/shows as well as reading my old script. I’m super excited and nervous at the same time since it’s my first drama show and of course because of the adjustments I have to make due to COVID.” Mavy, on the other hand, focuses on getting back in shape for his new projects. Aside from starring in the morning talk show, he’s also busy with endorsement shoots as well as his performances on GMA’s weekend variety show All-Out Sundays.

“When the pandemic came, I lost my rhythm but then I realized projects still came left and right and I needed to get back in shape. It was easy though since the whole family loves to work out in our own mini home gym. Honestly, we bond that way, we all love to workout since it’s our stress reliever and we find joy in it. I contacted my trainer and he gave me a personalized meal plan and personalized workouts and from there I just found the discipline to work towards my goal.”

Mavy also narrated how they are coping to

attending online classes while they work, “I’m glad though that there are online classes since I am able to focus on my education this time around and at the same time, still have time for my career. I’m well adjusted to the online situation since we honestly have no choice. We are all at home due to the pandemic but with that, you really need to find purpose on what you really want to do most especially this time.”

Mavy and Cassy were recently chosen as endorsers of a major local fashion brand for its newest collection of casual wear.

Both were enthusiastic to take part in the shoot and gain positive experiences from it.

As for Cassy, “I have never felt more confident in a photoshoot! The Penshoppe shoot was really fun since it allowed me to truly be me and express myself.

Something about the Penshoppe team made me feel truly comfortable and confident (the fit of the clothes as well).”

Mavy also agreed with his sister’s sentiments as he felt a boost of confidence as well, “It was one of the best experiences I’ve had so far.

I felt like I was able to control how I wanted to present myself to the world. I felt like I was in control of this campaign since they allowed me to be myself and express who I truly was through the outfits (which I was able to switch up based on how I would wear that certain outfit) or how I posed or which hairstyle I wanted. Just basically every little detail had “Maverick Legaspi” in it.”

It seems nothing can stop this dynamic duo in their pursuit of a great future.

Catch Mavy and Cassy every Saturday, 10:45 a.m. in Sarap, ‘Di Ba? Bahay Edition, every Sunday, 12:00 nn, in All-Out Sundays and follow them on their social media pages to stay updated.

DYNAMIC DUO.

The Legaspi twins are happy with each other’s achievements and don’t mind not being together in the same project all the time.

Little Mix blends ‘Sweet Melody’

Teen basketball player Ezekeil Fondevilla balances his studies and athletic priorities.

Antipolo’s hot-shooting hunk baller

By Paolo Manuel C. Fule THE game of basketball has evolved a lot in this time and age, as reflected on how the game is played on the international scene particularly in the NBA. It is said that long-range shooting is the “new normal” in this sport.

Today, this notion has been added to the fact that centers and forwards should also know how to create midrange and long-range shots. Such is the case of this young and upcoming sharpshooting cager and model from La Salle Antipolo. Meet Ezekeil Fondevilla.

Born on Feb. 16, 2002 in Sta. Mesa, Manila to Romarico Fondevilla, and Marites Fondevilla, the 5-foot-11 athlete from La Salle College Antipolo is currently studying STEM as a grade 11 student.

He plays point guard and shooting guard for his team. His favorite shot is 3-point long-range shots, which he is known for in the hardcourt.

Asked how he manages to balance his studies and his love for basketball, Ezekeil explained that even before he started his career as a basketball player, he already conditioned himself to the possibility that his studies would be affected.

“Of course I wouldn’t let my passion for basketball ruin my academic life.

The most important thing for me to consider when balancing between my studies and basketball is to manage my time properly. Time management is really important since if I can’t manage my time between my career and academics properly, I would have a difficult time maintaining my grades,” said Ezi, as he is fondly called.

His career-high in points is 34 when he was in grade 9 during the Private School basketball League (PSBL) against Letran Knights. He lists Stephen Curry, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, and Lebron James as his idols. His favorite team in the NBA is the Golden State Warriors.

When it comes to keeping his body healthy and fit for the game, “I am not really picky when it comes to the food that I eat but I only eat in moderation and what’s enough to maintain my body. I exercise regularly for about 2 to 3 times a day but before I do that, I would jog first for about 30 minutes”, said Ezi. The teen cager dreams of becoming a successful businessman in the future so that he can give back to his parents and to the people who have helped him grow.

THIS November, the world’s biggest girl band Little Mix serves another slice of its Confetti album with the release of the brand new single “Sweet Melody.”

Co-written by Ariana collaborator Tayla Parx, and co-produced by No.1 hitmaker MNEK, “Sweet Melody” is a pulsating and infectious pop song emblazoned with gigantic harmonies and a driving rhythm.

Group members Jade, Perrie, Leigh-Anne, and Jesy have been working on the album for the last year, perfecting a collection of thirteen solid gold pop songs that showcase their sensational talent for creating music that crosses generations.

Confetti sees the band team up with the cream of current pop creators including Tayla Parx and MNEK, pop supremos TMS and long-time collaborator Kamille.

Little Mix has established itself as the world’s biggest girl band - it has sold over 50 million records worldwide, collected over 18 million Spotify listeners, received over 3 billion YouTube views, and collated 12 billion streams worldwide.

The previous witnessed the band win its second Brit Award – for Best British Video for “Woman Like Me,” and perform the same song live at the ceremony.

The group also won two Global Awards for Best Group and Best Song, followed by its 4th EMA Award for Best UK and Ireland Act. This year’s Top 10 hit “Break Up Song” has so far been streamed 75 million times and incredibly became their 15th UK Official Charts Top 10 hit with 300,000 UK sales. This November will see the band both perform at and host the 2020 MTV EMA’s.

Little Mix is currently on primetime BBC One every Saturday night with a brand new TV series Little Mix The Search. The series, made by ModestTV, sees the band creating bands and becoming mentors to a new wave of talent.

The singers who have made it into new bands gain access to Little Mix’s inner circle who have contributed to their phenomenal success, including vocal coaches, songwriters, producers, and stylists.

Little Mix has released ‘Sweet Melody,’ another break-up song from the group’s forthcoming album ‘Confetti,’ which is set to drop this Fall.

Pets Honor your deceased pet, adopt a rescued dog or cat B4

A

TEACHER lost her furbaby, a Golden retriever, to cancer two years ago.

For three long months, she cried at different hours of the day, because she missed her doggy so much.

She would remember her dog eating from a bowl of food in the kitchen with so much gusto and smiling at her as if to thank her.

When she went to the family room, she would “see” her furbaby lying on the couch or the floor sleeping. When she went out to the garden, she would “see” him running and playing with the hose. Every part of the house reminded her of her beloved pet.

One day, a friend who also lost a dog told her that she adopted a dog from the shelter.

Her friend said she went to a shelter to donate dog food and noticed an asong Pinoy or aspin

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020

Desiree Carlos, Editor

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

PET TALES

BY DESIREE CARLOS

with very sad eyes. When she approached the dog, the dog smiled at her. She fell in love.

She decided to adopt the dog and went through the adoption process. After two weeks, she brought home the dog.

As the days passed, the friend noticed that although she still thought of her dead pet, the sadness became less intense, until she can only remember her pet with love in her heart.

She encouraged the teacher to adopt a rescued dog too. The teacher did. In time, the teacher also noticed that she would remember her dead pet only with love and not with sadness anymore.

Both the teacher and her friend realized that they freed themselves from too much sadness Scarlet, 4-5 years old, was left in the garage of her owner's house in Cavite. She survived through the kindness of neighbors who slipped food under the gate.

Cinderella, 5-6 years old, was a stray dog who was already weak from too many ticks sucking her blood and from hunger when she was rescued.

when they adopted a rescued dog because they knew they were also honoring their dead pet.

This, aside from the fact any dog – rescued or not—brings so much joy one’s life.

When you honor a dead pet by adopting a rescued dog or cat, you are actually saving a life. That makes the act of adopting more meaningful.

In Quezon City alone, at least 50 dogs are euthanized or put to sleep in the pound.

Multiply that by four weeks, you have 200 dogs killed every month. Multiply that by 12 months, about 2,400 dogs are killed every year in Quezon City only.

Other local government units in Metro Manila and in the provinces have kill pounds or a facility where dogs are killed either weekly or when the pound staff have to make space for new dogs caught by the catchers or surrendered by owners.

Some of the kill pounds are in Manila, Muntinlupa, and San Juan in Metro Manila, Davao City, Baguio City, San Jose del Monte in Bulacan, and in Laguna. There are more.

The sad reality is thousands of dogs and thousands of cats are killed every year.

Thousands more languish in no-kill pounds or pounds where dogs and cats are not euthanized or put to sleep, but who die slowly due to illnesses and hunger.

There are pounds whose staff say they have no budget for food. Imagine living your days

Macky is a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois who was orphaned when her owner died of cancer last year.

and night without food or even water.

When a dog gets sick because the pound staff caught and brought in a dog with distemper or parvo or leptospirosis, and infects the other dogs, the older dog residents slowly die because they will not be given medicine to treat them of the illness. Imagine experiencing all the pain brought by the disease, of dying slowly, alone.

When you adopt a rescued dog or cat, you will save at least one dog or cat who will not be killed or will die slowly due to hunger or a disease in the pound.

When you adopt, you will also save that dog or cat who was hit by a reckless driver, a dog who was to be brought to a slaughterhouse to be killed for his/her meat, a cat who was to be fed to a snake or to be brought to a laboratory to be dissected When you adopt a dog or a cat from an animal welfare group, you will allow the rescuers to rescue another dog or cat.

This is the best way to honor a beloved pet: to rescue another by adopting.

You, who loved your pet so much, have so much more love to give. I hope you can make an abandoned dog, or a maltreated cat, or a homeless animal feel that love too by adopting one of them from an animal welfare group.

Our group has adorable dogs and cats waiting for their forever home, a family to love them for the rest of their lives.

Jasper is around 4-5 years old. He was seen on the street of Manila very thin and very sick.

Here are some of the loving, sweet rescues of Save Animals of Love and Light (Save ALL Inc.). They are fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered. Please contact us in Facebook, or message Is La.

Pet cremation and funeral services PETS fill our days and nights with so much love.

A pet comforts us when we are sad, and brings joy and warmth to our hearts every single day with such a beautiful smile, that wagging tail, and those wet kisses.

Thus, when one loses a pet, it is like losing a part of one’s self. It breaks one’s heart to lose a beloved furbaby. It can be as painful as losing a human loved one for a pet is like a child to us.

It helps somehow to know one’s pet is in good hands even after they have crossed the rainbow bridge.

Because we treat our pets as family, we want the best for them even after death.

To help a pet owner after a pet has crossed, here are available cremation, burial, funeral and memorial services available in the country.

Pet Cremation Services

The pet crematorium usually offers the following services: 1. Collect your pet from the home or clinic.

2. Cremate your pet’s body at their facility.

3. Return the ashes to you or put in their pet ossuary where ashes are stored in an urn.

There are extra services offered by some pet crematorium. These include: 1. Viewing or funeral service in a chapel.

Please visit places that offer pet cremation to be able to check out rooms for a funeral service.

2. Some of the pet’s fur are cut and given back to you.

3. Paw prints on clay mold is given to you.

4. Different kinds of boxes or urn for you to put your pet’s ashes.

You can also request the following depending on the pet crematorium you chose: 1. Visiting hours at the pet crematorium to say your goodbye.

2. An individual cremation for your pet, not with other dead pets.

3. Burial at a pet cemetery.

4. A memorial book entry or a web page for you pet.

Because of the different services offered by pet crematorium, it is best that you call the company first. Tell them what you want and ask if these services are being offered, and how much it will cost.

There are some crematorium that took a week to return ashes of our rescued dogs.

Ask the companies how long it will take for them to cremate your pet’s body and return the ashes to you.

In “Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Pet Cremation Services,” beyond.life describes a pet’s ashes for those who are anxious about this part: “Pet ashes are actually small fragments of bone. As such, they’re usually a pale grey colour. The consistency is like grit or very fine gravel, rather than a powder.”

Suggestions on what to do with the ashes from beyond.life: 1. You can scatter your pet’s ashes in his favorite place like the garden or the beach.

2. You can keep the ashes in the urn at home.

3. You can bury the ashes in a pet cem-

Pet Holidays for November 2020 • • • • •

Adopt a Senior Pet Month National Senior Pet Month Pet Diabetes Month Pet Cancer Awareness Month (AVMA) November 1: National Cook for Your Pets Day

• November 2-6: National Animal Shelter and Rescue Appreciation Week • November 7: National Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day • November 17: National Black Cat Day (US)

etery if you are renting or plan to sell your house someday.

4. You can bury the ashes in your backyard if you plan to stay in the same home for the rest of your life.

5. Keep some of the ashes and put in a locket or jar-pendant, then scatter or bury the other ashes.

6. Look for someone who can make an urn that looks like your pet.

Here are some pet crematorium, pet columbary, and pet cemetery in the Philippines: 1. Atienza Pet Crematorium at 300 Ligas2, Bacoor, Cavite This company offers cremation and funeral services for all kinds of animals.

They guarantee that you will get your pet’s remains, and not that of another pet.

2. Manila Pet Sanctuary This company offers cremation and funeral services for pets only You can contact them at 0919 991 8753.

3. Noah's Ark Pet Columbaria in Tagaytay City, Cavite This pet columbary is located in Paradizoo, a local animal theme park in Tagaytay.

It has more than 4,000 vaults reserved for the ashes and bones of deceased pets.

When you purchase a vault, proceeds are donated to animal welfare groups like Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Strike Animal Welfare Society, and Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA) Welfare Philippines.

4. PAWS Shelter In Katipunan, Quezon City Part of the PAWS shelter has been converted into a mass grave where dead pets who did not die of a contagious disease are buried.

Instead of tombstones which can not be put on the mass grave, owners can choose a tile at the PAWS Animal Rehabilitation Center (PARC) Memorial Wall for a fee to remember their pets by.

5.Pet to Nature Philippines at 54 Mayor Gil Fernando Avenue, San Roque, 1801, Marikina City Pet to Nature, in their Facebook page, says it is the “pioneer in eco-friendly PET CRE-

A pet columbary cremated the remains of Potchie, put the ashes in an orange box with his name, and gave a fur sample and paw print mold. The cost: P8,000.00. The artwork of Potchie with two other rescued dogs was done by artist Gel Estrada.

MATION services in Manila, Philippines. We provide the most caring and gentle way in saying good bye to your beloved pets.”

They offer the following: 1. Chapel for pet viewing pre-aquamation 2. 24-hour pick-up (no extra charge for night pick-up) in Metro Manila 3. Cremation using aquamation system which is eco-friendly.

For more information, please send a message through their FB page or contact them at 0917 872 7708.

5. Pet Valley Park and Crematory in Silang, Cavite Their 5,000-square-meter pet cemetery provides full service. They give the owners fur samples and paw prints to remember their pets by.

Owners can visit on All Souls' Day. 7. Precious Paws Aftercare Services in Congressional Extension, Quezon City “The first pet cremation facility in Quezon City.

When the time comes to say goodbye to our beloved pets, they deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Here at Precious Paws, we treat pets as family,” says Precious Paws in their Facebook page.

For more information, please contact 0915 881 5288.

8. Rainbow Bridge Pet Aftercare Services in 78 Main Avenue (between 13th and 14th Avenue), Murphy, Brgy. Socorro, Quezon City This company offers cremation. It can pick up the remains and return the ashes within and outside Metro Manila They can also cremate other animals, not only cats and dogs.

They can also give owners photos of the pets and customized paperweights if requested for an additional fee.

They also offer to put fur or ashes inside a jewelry upon request.

9. St Francis Animal Clinic In Visayas Avenue, Quezon City This clinic also offers mass burial and crematory services and give owners keepsake boxes with the pet's photo and paw print mold.

But St Francis Animal Clinic, like PAWS, does not allow visits at the burial site.

10.Vets in Practice Animal Hospital in Mandaluyong, Quezon City This clinic offers cremation services.

We would like to update this list to help pet owners when the time comes to say goodbye to their beloved furbaby.

Please send us a message via email – daycarlos28@yahoo.com -- if you know of other pet crematorium, columbary or cemetery in the Philippines. Thank you. DC