Manila Standard - 2020 December 10 - Thursday

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Covid puts 2m workers ‘floating’

By Vito Barcelo

MORE than 2 million workers are under “floating status” or on “forced leave” because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Wednesday.

The admission came a day after the World Bank said 2.7 million more Filipinos would join the ranks of the poor

in 2020 due to the triple shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, the loss of jobs resulting from efforts to contain it, and a series of destructive typhoons.

Labor Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez the workers came from 96,000 establishments that are temporarily closed.

Benavidez said with the easing of Next page

VOL. XXXIV • NO. 279 • 3 SECTIONS 12 PAGES • P18 • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Congress ratifies P4.5-t budget Spending plan underpins recovery in 2021, transmittal to Palace next week

TOP 10 2021 BUDGET SHARES

TEAM EFFORT. Senators and congressmen line up in front of the podium at the Session Hall of the House of Representatives on Wednesday after ratifying the P4.5-trillion 2021 national budget, which will be sent to President Rodrigo Duterte for signing into law. Ver Noveno

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta ONGRESS on Wednesday night ratified the final version of the P4.5-trillion national budget for 2021, which President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to sign into law before the year ends.

C

The House of Representatives was the first to approve the final version of the 2021 budget, with the Senate following suit about two hours later, green-lighting the spending plan aimed at speeding up the economy battered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ratification came hours after

members of the bicameral budget panel, composed of senators and congressmen, adopted the report in their meeting in a hotel in Makati City earlier in the day. It will be sent to the President for approval after a week or once it is printed.

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Lockdowns bite as severe hunger hits 2m families

By Allison Jackson DANIEL AUMINTO lost his job and then his home when the coronavirus pandemic sent the Philippines into lockdown. Now he and his family live on the street, relying on food handouts to survive.

Charities are struggling to meet the ever-growing demand for food as millions of families go hungry across the country.

COVID-19 restrictions have crippled the economy and thrown many out of work.

“I’ve never seen hunger at this level Next page

Department of Education P708.18 billion Department of Public Works and Highways P694.82 billion Department of Health P287.47 billion Department of the Interior and Local Government P247.50 billion Department of National Defense P205.47 billion Department of Social Welfare and Development P176.65 billion Department of Transportation P87.44 billion Department of Agriculture P68.62 billion Judiciary (courts) P44.10 billion Department of Labor and Employment P36.60 billion

COVID-19 PH AT A GLANCE

(AS OF 4 PM DECEMBER 9)

444,164 TOTAL NUMBER OF CASES

1,387 26,545 NEW

QUEUE FOR FOOD. In this photo taken on November 24, Catholic priest Father Flavie Villanueva (left) helps a young street dweller queueing up for free packed meals distributed by religious order Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Manila. Charities are struggling to meet the ever-growing demand for food as millions of families go hungry across the country where COVID-19 restrictions have crippled the economy and thrown many out of work. AFP

8,677

NLEX mulls TRO, city drops talks

By Maricel V. Cruz and Rio N. Araja THE scheduled dialogue Thursday between the city government of Valenzuela and NLEX Corp. regarding the controversial radio frequency identification (RFID) cashless payment scheme

will no longer push through, Mayor Rex Gatchalian said Wednesday.

This emerged following a reported plan of the management of NLEX to file a temporary restraining order against the suspension of its business permit by the Valenzuela government.

Next page

Hearing on Leonen ouster next year commence next year, Deputy Speaker and Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus RodriTHE hearings on the impeachment guez said Wednesday as Congress is set complaint against Supreme Court As- to adjourn next week for the Holidays. sociate Justice Marvic Leonen will Next page

By Maricel V. Cruz

US GIVES PH P1.4B IN DEFENSE AID Story on A2

OLDEST ALLY. Acting US Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller (center) is flanked

by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. on Tuesday. Miller announced the recent transfer of P1.4 billion ($29.3 million) in defense articles, including sniper and anti-explosive equipment, to senior Philippine military officials (see story on A2). DND photo

ACTIVE

7

DEATHS

NEW

408,942

156

RECOVERIES

NEW

LOCAL ROUNDUP

DTI chief tested positive of virus DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez bared Wednesday he tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“I had myself swabbed Sunday after exposure last Tuesday from a person Next page

‘Contact tracing effective than yantok beating’

By Joel E. Zurbano MASS testing and contact-tracing method are more effective than using rattan (yantok) sticks to prevent the coronavirus disease, according to former Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Binay’s declaration coincided with a COVID Task Force official statement saying authorities will use rattan sticks on health protocol violators who resist arrest.

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RATTAN TRAINING. Recruits practice arnis using ‘yantok’ or rattan sticks as part of their self-defense training on Wednesday, as the Philippine National Police assured the public the sticks would not be used to hit quarantine violators but only as social distancing measuring sticks. Norman Cruz

A2

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

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US gives PH P1.4b in defense aid

By Rey E. Requejo and Nash B. Maulana

V

ISITING United States Acting Defense Secretary Christopher C. Miller on Tuesday reaffirmed the US commitment to support the Philippines as Washington’s oldest treaty ally in Asia.

while U.S. National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien was on November 2223.

During his meeting with his Filipino counterparts, Miller emphasized the importance of the US-Philippine alliance to national and regional security.

The US official also discussed opportunities for greater bilateral security cooperation to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

“The strategic friendship between the Philippines and the USA is a foundation for security in the Indo-Pacific,” Miller said.

On Tuesday, the US Department of Defense donated on Tuesday P1.38 billion or $29 million worth of defense gear to the AFP to strengthen the coun-

try’s efforts to secure its borders.

Apart from the defense gear which included sniper rifles and anti-improvised explosive device equipment, Miller said the US will also deliver to the AFP one C-130 military transport aircraft on December 17.

Miller also underscored the longstanding and steadfast alliance between Manila and Washington, as well as the US government’s commitment to helping the country secure its national and regional security.

Miller cited the US government’s P1.1 billion or $23.4 million COVID-19 assistance and disaster relief for recent typhoon victims and its support for the Philippine counterterrorism and maritime security efforts

Miller made the assurance as it announced the transfer of P1.4 billion worth of defense articles to the Armed Forces of the Philippines which was witnessed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to visit the Philippines, the United States’ oldest treaty ally in Asia. It was an honor to meet with Secretary Lorenzana and

Secretary Locsin to discuss deepening our alliance and supporting a free and open South China Sea and Indo-Pacific region,” said Miller, who was appointed

by US President Donald Trump on November 11, 2020 replacing Mark Esper.

Miller was the third top US military and security official who visited the Philippines within a month. On November 25, US Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett came to the country,

Covid...

From A1

DOJ to let NBI probe division chief’s death

quarantine guidelines which allow some establishments to reopen, the number of orkers under “floating status” should be reduced next year.

“We expect that those put on floating status have been notified already to return to work,” Benavidez said.

The labor official said under the law, the employer-employee relationship may be suspended in case of suspension of operation of the business or undertaking of the employer for a period not exceeding six months.

If not rehired after six months, Benavidez said, the employee placed on floating status must be provided with separation pay.

“The separation pay is equivalent to one half of pay for every year of service… That’s the amount the retrenched worker should receive,” he said.

“If they are not rehired or not given separation pay, they may file a case in any DOLE office,” he added.

He said the government has also allowed the extension of the rehiring policy for temporarily displaced workers for another six months.

He said the extension of suspension of employment shall not affect the “right of the employees to separation pay,” adding that the first six months of suspension of employment shall be included in the computation of the employees’ separation pay.

In an online briefing Tuesday, World Bank senior economist Rong Qian said the economy could contract 8.1 percent for the entire year, worse than the 6.9 percent decline in gross domestic product (GDP) it predicted in October.

She said the COVID pandemic was expected to slow down the pace of poverty reduction.

“The containment measures have disrupted economic activity resulting in income loss, decline in wage incomes, a slowdown in entrepreneurial activities and a fall in remittances.

The poor and vulnerable are especially likely to experience significant welfare losses given their limited capacity to manage risks,” she said.

With the economy contracting and household income declining this year, poverty is estimated to increase from 20.5 percent in 2019 to 22.6 percent in 2020.

“The expected growth contraction in 2020 is likely to increase poverty in the short-term, resulting in 2.7 million additional poor people in 2020 compared to 2019 estimates, measured against the lower middle-income poverty line of $3.2 a day,” Qian said.

‘Contact tracing...

From A1 Violators will first be reminded to observe minimum health standards, then will be given a warning, followed by a ticket, and if violation persists will then be arrested, according to Lt. Gen. Cesar Binag, commander of Joint Task Force COVID Shield.

Binay made the statement after President Rodrigo Duterte thumbed down

Hearing...

From A1 “I think there will be no more time. We will already have our recess sometime on December 18 (sic) so we don’t have any material time at this time,” Rodriguez, vice chair of the House Committee on Justice, said in a media forum.

Congress adjourns on Dec. 18 and resumes its session on January 18, 2021.

“So therefore probably it will reach next year for the determination of form and substance,” Rodriguez added.

DOH looking into Sinovac bribery report

By Willie Casas and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Department of Health on Wednesday said the country’s vaccine panels will look into reports that Chinese vaccine manufacturer Sinovac bribed Chinese drug regulators before.

A Washington Post report said court records show that Sinovac, which is also applying to run COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials in the Philippines, acknowledged the bribery.

The CEO of the company reportedly told the court that he could not refuse the regulatory official who demanded for money.

Sinovac, which is looking to supply the Philippines with COVID-19 vaccine, already secured the approval of the Vaccine Expert Panel under the Department of Science and Technology.

The same US newspaper report also said that at least 20 government officials and hospital administrators admitted to taking bribes from Sinovac employees between 2008 and 2016 in their testimonies in court.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the agency is aware of the media report.

“This will also form part of the work of the vaccine expert panel.

They will assess the veracity first and foremost of such a report. Kung meron mang katotohanan ito (If there is some truth to this),” he said during a virtual briefing.

Duque said there is also a possibility that the source of the media report was questionable.

Manguerra’s death, saying that it was a major loss to the Department of Justice and the NBI. “I’d rather that the NBI make the public statement after they have exhaustively examined all possible angles. But one thing sure, the DOJ and the NBI suffered another major loss,” Guevarra said in a text message.

“Chief Manguera was the head of the

anti-terrorist division of the NBI that was responsible for the arrest of scores of Abu Sayyaf fighters throughout the country, including in Metro Manila,” he added.

NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand Lavin also said the bureau is mourning the death of Manguerra.

“The NBI is in a deep state of mourning.

We condole with the family, relatives and friends of Chief Manguerra,” Lavin said.

“What is the logic in further increasing the budget of the agency in 2021 considering the challenges brought about by the pandemic?” he said.

But Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, chairman of the House committee of ways and means, said: “The ball will be in the President’s court early, so there is almost no risk that we will face a delayed budget enactment this year. That can only mean well for [the] 2021 economic recovery.”

He said the early passage of the 2021 General Appropriations Act and a corporate recovery and tax reform bill would be a strong foundation for an economic rebound.

“With these reforms done, we can focus on economic relief and the vaccine rollout,” Salceda added.

Salceda said the budget reflected a P300-billion increase in infrastructure spending that the House sought from the economic managers during the early days of the COVID-19 crisis.

Apart from P1.1 trillion for infrastructure, the 2021 budget also includes P7.6 billion in additional spending for adapting to post-COVID life, including items on telecommunications enhancements. The budget also includes P203 billion for health care, Salceda said.

The 2021 budget deficit is expected to be at 8.5 percent of the gross domes-

tic product, but Salceda said this can still come down.

“The actual budget deficit ultimately depends upon how fast we spend, how quickly the economy recovers, and how well we collect revenues. We cannot slow down spending during the recovery. It is vital that we spend quickly. But we can make collection more efficient,” Salceda said.

In a press conference earlier Wednesday, Angara said that Congress is planning to extend the validity of the 2020 budget until June or December 2021, and the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2) until March or mid-2021.

“The 2020 GAA (General Appropriations Act) has a lot of projects that were delayed because of the lockdown, of quarantine so additional time is needed,” Angara said.

He noted that the P8 billion in Bayanihan 2 allotted to vaccine acquisition would also expire on Dec. 19 and would revert to the National Treasure if the law were not extended.

Aside from Angara, physically present in the bicameral conference were Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Pia Cayetano.

From the House contingent, present were appropriations committee chair Yap and Reps. Mikee Romero and Bernadette Dy.

before,” said Jomar Fleras, executive director of Rise Against Hunger in the Philippines, which works with more than 40 partners to feed the poor.

“If you go out there everybody will tell you that they’re more afraid of dying from hunger than dying from COVID. They don’t care about Covid anymore.”

The number of people going hungry has reached a record high during the pandemic, according to pollster Social Weather Stations.

Nearly one-third of families -- or 7.6 million households -- did not have

enough food to eat at least once in the previous three months, its September survey showed.

Among them were 2.2 million families experiencing “severe hunger” -- the highest ever.

The numbers have been going up since May, two months after the country went into a severe lockdown -- reversing a downward trend since 2012.

Virus restrictions have been eased in recent months to allow more businesses to operate as the government seeks to revive the devastated economy, which is expected to shrink up to 9.5 percent this year.

For the country’s legions of poor, the pandemic is just another challenge in their

lives -- and not even the most serious.

Auminto, 41, spent years sleeping on the streets and eking out a meagre living by selling trash for recycling. His fortunes changed in 2019 when he found stable work as a building painter.

That gave him enough money to rent a room in Manila, which he shared with his wife and their two-year-old daughter, buy food, and even save a little towards their dream of opening a small store.

Then COVID-19 hit.

“We lost our home, my job. We even lost our clothes which were stolen from us,” said Auminto as he sat in a park where the family sleeps on a flattened cardboard box at night. AFP

the use of rattan sticks or “yantok” to enforce social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Duterte said he wanted police force to return to using rubber batons to subdue criminals resisting arrest.

“I welcome Malacanang’s statement rejecting the use of yantok sticks against supposed violators of physical distancing. It’s about time we move away from heavy handed approaches,” said Binay.

Binay said some measures being im-

plemented by the police and local enforcers for the past nine months have caused undue suffering and injuries, even death, mostly in poor communities.

Despite this, COVID-19 cases continue to rise, he added.

Binay cited a September data from the Philippine National Police which showed that 100,486 have been arrested for allegedly violating lockdown regulations imposed since March.

In most instances, cases were not filed against the violators, Binay said,

while those cases that have been filed were dismissed by prosecutors.

In Quezon City, a policeman gunned down a former soldier for allegedly violating lockdown restrictions in Barangay Pasong Putik. Elsewhere, curfew violators were reported detained in dog cages, and subjected to inhumane treatment by authorities, he added.

“Some were injured and died as a result of such treatment during lockdown but COVID-19 cases continue to rise,” he said.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Wednesday condemned yet another “reckless” social gathering organized at the beachfront of a resort in Barangay Laiya, San Juan, Batangas.

The DOT said the mass gathering involved a large group of individuals partying without face masks and face shields, nor observance of physical distancing protocols at the beach of the resort.

It said this violates the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) for areas under general community quarantine.

Following the incident, the local government of San Juan revoked the business permit and filed appropriate charges against the erring establishment, which the DOT identified as the Blue Coral Beach Resorts, Inc. The same establishment was suspended from Sept. 2 to 17 after violating IATF-EID health protocols.

interview, heard nationwide, Gatchalian stressed that NLEX should have not called for a dialogue if it really intended to bring the matter to the court.

NLEX Corp.’s business permit was suspended by the Valenzuela government on Monday due to the unresolved issues on the RFID cashless payment mess.

Gatchalian said the duration of the suspension of the business permit would depend on how soon NLEX would act on the complaints against them.

Meanwhile, the Toll Regulatory Board warned tollway operators of penalties and possible suspension over violations of the implementing rules and regulations of

cashless transactions in expressways.

In a statement on Tuesday evening, the TRB said its continuing operations and systems audit in enforcing cashless transactions in toll plazas has identified glitches that have been relayed to toll operators.

“These glitches, admitted by the North Luzon Expressway Corp. to be happening, are not new to TRB management and were subject to notices to correct,” the TRB said.

To avoid penalties and possible suspension, it ordered toll operators to “aggressively pursue and consistently implement” measures that would fix issues with their RFID systems and help ease traffic.

By Rey E. Requejo JUSTICE Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said he would leave it up to the National Bureau of Investigation to thoroughly investigate circumstances surrounding the mysterious death of NBI’s Counter-Terror Division chief Raoul Manguerra. On Tuesday.

Guevarra expressed sadness over

Congress...

From A1 “If it can be done in seven days’ printing, the budget book would come in (to Malacanang) by December 18. If not, before Christmas, maybe December 21,” House appropriations committee chairman Rep. Eric Yap, who presided over the bicameral body with Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, said.

Prior to the adoption of next year’s budget, Senate President Vicente Sotto said there was no need for a nominal voting of bicameral approval.

Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri moved to adopt and ratify the budget which he described as “historic” due to the current conditions under the cloud of the coronavirus.

Still, Senator Panfilo Lacson questioned the bicameral committee’s move to increase the 2021 budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to P694.8 billion despite its low disbursement rate in past years.

Comparing what was indicated in the national expenditure program and the bicam report, Lacson pointed out that the DPWH budget increased by P28.3 billion. The agency got the second highest allocation in the 2021 budget. (see table – Editors).

Lockdowns...

From A1

As a matter of procedure, Rodriguez explained the impeachment complaint would be referred to Speaker Lord Allan Velasco after it was filed at the office of the House Secretary General.

The Speaker’s Office has 10 days sessions days from receipt of the complaint to have it included in the order of business.

The complaint will then be referred to the Committee on Justice to determine the complaint’s “form and substance.”

“Probably we can decide on the form, we can decide on the substance. But the actual hearing of the committee will be next year,” Rodriguez said.

NLEX...

From A1 Gatchalian posted screenshots of the live tweets of a radio station’s interview with NLEX Corp. senior vice president Romulo Quimbo Jr., who said they were mulling filing for a TRO. In his tweets, Gatchalian said the local government “doesn’t do well being threatened. We will welcome them filing a case in court. We know we stand on strong legal ground so we are ready to defend our actions.”

In a separate Dobol B sa News TV

Local...

From A1 who tested positive,” Lopez told trade reporters in a Viber message.

Lopez said he received his COVID-19 test result Monday and that his asymptomatic and in full isolation.

DOH study cost of free COVID-19 testing

THE Department of Health on Wednesday said it is now preparing an estimated budget on how much it would cost to offer free COVID-19 testing for all Filipinos.

“We are already looking into this and preparing for the budget that is needed to carry out the President’s directive,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said during a virtual briefing.

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday complained about the expensive cost of polymerase chain reaction or PCR swab tests. He said if there is enough money, the government can buy testing kits and give the tests for free.

“It is a welcome news that our President would like to put in more resources in testing, so that it would not burden our people from the cost,” Duque said.

DOT condemns ‘reckless’ beach party

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A3

Poe dares Dito to serve more unserved areas SENATOR Grace Poe on Wednesday challenged Dito Telecommunity Corp. to show its goodwill and commitment by providing service to unserved and underserved areas.

“By strategically fulfilling its commitment to meet the said number of barangays mostly in the NCR area where it’s the easiest way to go about it, Dito is literally giving us the bare minimum of what it committed to do,” Poe said.

Poe, head of the Senate public services committee, earlier enumerated the commitments Dito made to the government that will serve as a basis of its franchise renewal that will expire in 2023. These include its ability to provide a minimum standard of 27 mbps speed for internet connection in its first year, and should cover 37 percent of the population.

Senators have also raised concerns on Dito’s partnership with China Telecoms, especially on account of China’s law requiring all its subjects to report to the Chinese government any information it asks of them.

Senator Risa Hontiveros says under Chinese law, a Chinese corporation is obliged to cooperate in intelligence-gathering efforts.

Hontiveros has also expressed alarm over CreatorTech’s new study that reveals, among other things, that “ChinaTel reports directly to the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and that ChinaTel had close ties with China’s Armed Forces.”

“So after they show that they are able to honor their commitments and provide for all of those, then that will be a basis for us to determine if they’re really eligible for another 25 years,” Poe said.

“Dito will actually do a test run and said they were able to cover thousands of barangays, so we would actually want to go to one of those barangays and see if there’s been a marked improvement in their connection.”

“We can always see the numbers, but unless you’re actually the end user and experience how it performs, you can’t really vouch for it.” Macon Ramos-Araneta

CHURCH RESTORATION. A church maintenance worker cleans the entrance of the central bronze doors of the historic Manila Cathedral, which are on display for the public after it underwent a successful restoration, in Intramuros on Wednesday. Norman Cruz

Fixed term for AFP chief proposed

By Maricel V. Cruz

A

N ADMINISTRATION lawmaker on Wednesday proposed a fixed term for the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to do away with the revolving-door policy on appointments for the position and shield the selection process from politics.

Rep. Ruffy Biazon of Muntinlupa, senior vice chairman of the House Committee on National Defense and Security, filed House Bill 7677 to “shield the selection process for the AFP chief of staff and major service commanders

from political and personal considerations by ensuring that merit and fitness prevail.”

Biazon says the selection process has a tendency to politicize the office of the AFP chief of staff as the appointment to

the position has to be confirmed by the Commission on Appointments.

“The current set-up leads to situations where some officers jockey for the position by trying to curry favors with politicians in the hope that they get appointed.” Biazon said.

He said the AFP should be insulated from politics and his proposal, which is supported by the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, was congruent to the AFP Transformation Roadmap.

He also laments that AFP chiefs and the military’s major service commanders oftentimes had terms so short that they could not properly initiate and

implement plans and programs to the detriment of the organization. His bill, he says, seeks to correct this problem.

“This bill has a bit of a personal attachment to me. One of the reasons is that it has been a legislation that has been pushed by my father, former Senator, former Congressman, and former AFP Chief of Staff Rodolfo Biazon even in his earlier days in the Senate in the ‘90s. And when I also entered the House of Representatives, we both pushed for the same legislation,” Biazon said.

Biazon will head the technical working group tasked to consolidate the different bills filed prescribing a fixed term for the AFP chief of staff.

‘Release P3k seniors’ pension now’ A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Wednesday again appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte to order the Department of Social Welfare and Development to expedite the release of the July to December 2020 social pension for indigent seniors.

At P500 per month, the total social pension for the six months is P3,000 per pensioner.

Rep. Rodolfo Ordanes of the Senior Citizen party-list group wrote the President on Dec. 7, 2020, noting “how the indigent seniors need their social pension for survival needs.”

Ordanes said the release of the DSWD pension had been mired in technical difficulties among the DSWD, depositary bank, and electronic payments

services providers.

He said a further complication was the lack of e-payments access for seniors in remote and isolated areas, for which door-to-door or face-to-face delivery modes were necessary but with COVID-19 precautions.

“We are days away from Christmas and the end of this calamity-ridden year.

Indigent seniors desperately need their social pension of P3,000 for the second half of 2020,” Ordanes said.

“I am puzzled as to why the release of the social pension is taking so long. I appeal to the DSWD, the banks and the e-payments firms to please not worsen the suffering of the seniors.” Maricel V. Cruz

CHIPS DOWN. The Bureau of Customs – NAIA, in coordination with the Philippine Postal Corp. (Philpost), intercepts 38 parcels with 75 poker chip sets and other gambling paraphernalia imported through the Central Mail Exchange Center. The items were without the required permit from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). BOC Photo

IN BRIEF 7 nabbed for selling gov’t medicines DOJ: Suspect in murder of Cebu lawyer caught THE suspect in the murder of Cebu lawyer Joey Luis Wee has been arrested and is now in the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said Wednesday.

He said he was informed on Tuesday that “a certain Peralta” was tracked down and arrested in Laguna. He said details would follow.

Wee was shot outside his office in broad daylight in Cebu City on Nov. 23. He was killed less than a week after another lawyer, Eric Jay Magcamit of Palawan, was gunned down while on his way to a hearing.

Nine suspects, including a policeman, have been arrested and face criminal complaints over Magcamit’s death. Rey E. Requejo

PDEA, Grab ink deal vs. drug trafficking TO STOP drug trafficking using transport and delivery services, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and MyTaxi.PH Inc. or Grab Phils. have partnered, officials said Wednesday.

Director general Wilkins Villanueva and Sherielysse Bonifacio, Grab Phils. Public affairs head, made the statement in a simple ceremony at the PDEA national headquarters.

“The MoA aims to suppress the emerging trend of drug trafficking in the country as there are instances where accredited transport network vehicle services and delivery service drivers have unknowingly become conduits of drug trade by accepting transport and delivery services from persons engaged in illegal drug trafficking,” Villanueva said.

Rio Araja

By Willie Casas THE National Bureau of Investigation on Wednesday announced the arrest of seven people by the NBI-Special Task Force on Dec. 7, for the unauthorized selling of government medicines intended for patients under Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients.

NBI Officer-In-Charge Eric Distor identified the suspects as Aliza Macalambos, Jen Tubongbanua, Clarita Selga, Maria Fe Nisnisan Quimno, Emilda Besmonte, Norhata Batua and Virginia dela Cruz.

Distor said the operation stemmed from a letter of request for investigation sent by the National Kidney and Transplant Institute on the unauthorized selling of medicines intended for the poor patients under the MAIP of the Department

of Health.

The NKTI said that, being an implementing agency for the MAIP program, it was bound to protect government resources and property against individuals who unlawfully enrich themselves by depriving indigent patients of the medicine intended for them.

Distor directed the NBI-STF to conduct an investigation and set counteraction measures against all individuals engaged in the unauthorized selling of health products and medicines.

The NBI-STF conducted a surveillance and test-buy operation that resulted in the procurement of several medicines used by patients with kidney disease such as Epoetin Alfa (Pronivel) and Renvela, all medicines used by patients with kidney disease, from Macalambos.

FREE MY DAUGHTER. Linda Lacaba Echanis, mother of activist Amanda Echanis, speaks at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City on Wednesday to call for the release of her daughter with her nearly month-old child.

20% of Pinoy kids sharing math, reading textbooks

By Macon Ramos-Araneta A RECENTLY-RELEASED Southeast Asia-wide study on the learning outcomes of Grade 5 learners in 2019 revealed that around 20 percent of learners in the Philippines share mathematics or reading textbooks.

For Senator Win Gatchalian, this adds urgency to providing every public school learner with laptop and internet connectivity for a more efficient and equitable distribution of learning materials.

The senator is mulling over a law on universal access to laptops and connectivity for learners.

The Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics 2019 reported that more than two

learners share textbooks sometimes, which also revealed a consistent relationship between textbook availability and higher average achievement in reading, writing, and mathematics.

The pen-and-paper large scale assessment by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund revealed that only 10 percent of Filipino learners in Grade 5 developed enough reading proficiency to transition to secondary school.

Only 17 percent are proficient enough in math towards the end of primary school and only one percent can write cohesive texts with detailed ideas and a good range of appropriate vocabulary.

Gatchalian says given the delays of

delivering physical textbooks and learning materials, these can be made available in digital formats, distributed through the internet and accessed through learners’ laptops.

With schools not due to reopen until a vaccine for COVID-19 is found, authorities plan to continue with distance learning.

The senator also cited the effect of access to computers and connectivity on learners’ performance. According to a study by the Center for Educational Measurement on the results of the 2018 Program for International Student Assessment, the proportion of learners without computers and internet is much higher in the lower proficiency groups compared to higher proficiency groups.

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REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES Standard

TODAY COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCEMENT

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (CA) for its consent on the nominations of the following officals in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), namely: 1. Mr. LESLIE JUNIO BAJA

Chief of Mission, Class I, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Morocco with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Guinea, Republic of Mali, Islamic Republic of Mauritania, and Republic of Senegal.

2. Ms. JUNEVER M. MAHILUM-WEST Chief of Mission, Class I, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the French Republic with concurrent jurisdiction over the Principality of Monaco 3. Mr. RAYMOND REYES BALATBAT Chief of Mission, Class II, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Lebanese Republic The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/ notarized complaints or oppositions in thirty two (32) copies on the above nomination to the CA Secretariat, 6th Floor, PNB Financial Center, D. Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone numbers 8834-2713, 8831-1824, 88310527, 8832-9830, 8834-2706 and 8551-1989.

9 December 2020.

HECTOR A. VILLACORTA Secretary (MS-DEC. 9, 2020)

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020 lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

LGUs LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

RAINBOW CROSSING. Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno and Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna inaugurate a pedestrian crossing painted in rainbow colors, which represents the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) community, along Roxas Boulevard in Manila on Wednesday. Norman Cruz

QC ‘Vax to Normal’ Task Force created

By Rio N. Araja QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has created Task Force “Vax to Normal” to oversee the acquisition and distribution of a vaccine to fight the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

She ordered the establishment of the Task Force ‘Vax to Normal:” The Quezon City COVID-19 Vaccine Plan composed of heads of various offices of the city government and representatives from private stakeholders as members.

“Now that there many possible vaccines with enormous potential against the virus, we should prepare actions for the immediate procurement and distribution of an approved vaccine,” she said.

“We are organizing early to ensure that the directions set by the national government will be followed, and that those who need the virus most are prioritized,” the mayor added.

The Department of Health earlier announced that COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers Janssen, AstraZeneca and Clover Biopharmaceuticals had passed the country’s ethics review board.

Belmonte said the task force is mandated to profile and mandate members of priority sectors for inoculation.

The city is now reviewing and finalizing the database of those in the priority list, she added.

The task force is also tasked to select and acquire the vaccine authorized for use in coordination with the national government based on effectiveness and practical considerations, such as the vaccine’s storage, handling, equipment, and training requirements.

Landbank offers 2% subsidy on LGU loans A

S PART of measures to help communities bounce back from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the national government, through state-run Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), is providing an interest rate subsidy of 2% per annum on new and existing loans of Local Government Units (LGUs) for their response and recovery intervention projects for their constituents.

The interest subsidy forms part of the Recover as One (BARO) Act” or “Bayprovisions of Republic Act No. 11494 anihan 2,” in which LANDBANK has otherwise known as the “Bayanihan to been allotted a P1-billion interest subsidy

fund by the national government for loans secured by LGUs. The relief shall be applied to loan interest payments of municipal, city and provincial LGUs until December 31, 2022, or until the interest subsidy fund is fully utilized.

To extend the interest rate subsidy to as many LGUs as possible, a maximum interest subsidy equivalent to P10 million has been set for cities and provinces, and P5 million for municipalities.

“We strongly encourage our LGUs to make full use of credit facilities sub-

sidized by the national government to bankroll development projects in their respective localities. This will contribute greatly to reviving local economies and helping the country recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said LANDBANK President and CEO Cecilia C. Borromeo.

Qualified LGUs may avail of the loan interest subsidy for eligible projects pursuant to the objectives of the BARO Act. These include, but are not limited to, permanent working capital such as for the purchase of agricultural produce, acquisi-

tion of equipment, construction of facilities for linking of products to the market such as market infrastructure development and improvement, mobile palengke, collection and buying stations, and other related facilities.

LGUs with loans for programs and projects that provide basic and support services, social welfare and healthcare, and other infrastructure activities that aim to bring back confidence of the people and spur the local economy and businesses are also eligible to avail of the interest subsidy.

DOH checks if malls holiday-ready

By Willie Casas HEALTH Secretary Francisco Duque III, together with Assistant Secretary Elmer Punzalan, Metro Manila Center for Health Development OIC - Director Corazon Flores, National Capital inspected SM Megamall on Wednesday to ensure its implementation and enforcement of Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS) among shoppers this holiday season.

The Department of Health (DOH) team was welcomed by SM Malls President Steven Tan and Vice President Grace Magno who highlighted the health protocols for its shoppers and mall tenants, including prohibiting entry to those not wearing face masks and shields.

Tan also underscored its use of floor markers for physical distancing and Trace Together, its contact tracing program. With Trace Together, customers can fill up a contactless health declaration form through scanning QR codes.

The details will be valid for 7 days across all branches and mall affiliates, making contact tracing and movement easier.

The Health Chief acknowledged the role of the mall sector as an integral cog in revitalizing the economy. SM Malls are partners of the BIDA Solusyon campaign and have relentlessly implemented MPHS in all its branches to ensure safe shopping experience. He also reminded the public to not let their guards down as a surge of positive cases is anticipated during the holiday shopping rush.

City’s anti-corruption tack hailed MAYOR Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr.’s governance in Angeles City is now being recognized as one of the non-corrupt administrations in the world by the Anti-Corruption Civil Movement General Federation (ACCMGF).

With his anti-corruption efforts, Lazatin will be invited to the 7th United Nations International Anti-Corruption Day in Korea.

The city mayor has vowed that he will not tolerate corruption under his administration.

He created the Internal Affairs Division in the city as he intensified the fight

against corruption.

The city government is continuously conducting inter-office saturation inspection of business establishments.

Lazatin said there is a need spread the value of integrity to make the city transparent.

He has vowed not to allow any misconduct in the city and would investigate suspicious transactions and reports.

ACCMGF is a member of the Union of International Association and authorized by the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission. Butch Gunio

COCONUT PLANTING DAY. Senator Cynthia A. Villar, chairperson of the Philippine Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, joins the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), in partnership with DOST-PCAARRD, in marking the 1st National Coconut Planting Day on Wednesday. The activity showcased the DOST, PCAARRD and PCA technologies for the production of quality planting materials, including the coconut hybridization program, macapuno embryo culture technology, and the coconut somatic embryogenesis technology (CSET).

SANTA TRAIN. Mall workers dressed as Santa Claus and his friends dance for a fun Christmas groove at SM City Dasmariñas on Tuesday. Norman Cruz

Nolcom to press fight vs. rebels

By Jess Malabanan

CAMP AQUINO, Tarlac—Security forces in the entire Northern Luzon will remain on the offensive against communist rebels as the high military command here declared no ceasefire with the outlawed New People’s Army during the holiday season.

Northern Luzon Command Chief Lt. General Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said he directed military troops to sustain the campaign against communist guerillas.

Burgos issued the directive in the wake of President Duterte’s announcement on suspension of ceasefire this year.

“Our soldiers fully adhere to President Duterte’s decision not to declare ceasefire because time and again the NPA has been insincere and instead used the period to further their terroristic intentions toward the community and the general public,” he said.

“Per military intelligence, NPA has historically taken advantage of unilateral ceasefires declared by the government in the past to build up their army through forced recruitment, oppress our people through extortion and betray peace by launching attacks against both civilian and military targets,” Burgos added.

The official stressed that they would capitalize on the gains they have made in just a span of five days. These included the neutralization of one NPA Regional White Area Secretary and two NPA Finance Officers.

Gov hands P800k aid to fire victims SAMAL, Bataan—Bataan Gov. Abet Garcia personally handed over to Samal Mayor Aida Macalinao the ceremonial check from the provincial government amounting to P800,000 for the final phase of the construction of houses of Brgy. West Calaguiman fire victims.

“Ang pagpapakita ng malasakit sa kapwa at bayanihan ang siyang tunay na kahulugan ng 1Bataan”, the governor said in his message a week ago.

Garcia hatched the slogan “1Bataan”, which stands for unity towards progress in the province.

The governor and Samal local government have been helping the 34 families victimized by fire more than a month ago including new houses currently being constructed.

Fire victims also received P10,000 worth sari-sari store package from DTI Bataan recently.

The assistance was funded from Senator Bong Go’s “Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa” program.

Most of the victims are temporarily staying in the barangay facility while some to their relatives in the area. Butch Gunio

GenSan, Koronadal on KapitWiFi GLOBE has officially launched new partnerships with the local governments of General Santos City and Koronadal City to provide affordable internet access to residents and communities via KonekTayo WiFi. Formerly known as KapitWiFi, KonekTayo WiFi is a fast and secure community WiFi service that aims to provide households with affordable internet. Customers simply need to connect to the KonekTayo WiFi Hotspot, purchase a package and surf all day.

KonekTayo WiFi is part of Globe’s continuous efforts to make the internet accessible to Filipinos especially during this time.

Together with partner communities,

Globe is able to provide equal opportunities and affordable connectivity services for online learning, small online businesses, work-from-home, and critical communication needs, as well as push acceleration of digital transformation across various LGUs. This has been well underway this year and is targeted to reach more communities in 2021.

“As ICTs and connectivity have become essential in community building and progression, this partnership with Globe Telecom and KonekTayo WiFi enables us to break down barriers and open a new world of opportunities for our constituents here in General Santos,” said General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera.

Opinion A

Nobody is safe Zealand, Israel and Kuwait have acquired 53 percent of the potential doses—with Canada buying enough to vaccinate its population five times over, Oxfam said.

In an effort to address this kind of inequity, the World Health Organization (WHO) has thrown its support behind the COVAX alliance, which aims to have at least half a billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine by the first quarter of 2021 for

The warning comes from the People’s Vaccine Alliance, a coalition including Oxfam, Amnesty International and Global Justice Now, which observes that rich nations, home to only 14 percent of the world’s populations, have bought 53 percent of the total stock of the most promising vaccines as of last month.

While high-risk groups in Britain received on Tuesday the first shot of the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, most people in 67 lowand lower middle-income countries including Bhutan, Ethiopia and Haiti risk being left behind, they said.

Among the three COVID-19 vaccines for which efficacy results have been announced, almost all the available doses of two of them -- Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech -- have been acquired by rich countries, the Alliance report said.

While AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford have pledged to provide 64 percent of their doses to people in developing nations, that would only reach at most 18 percent of the world’s population by next year, it added.

In the meantime, the European Union, the United States, Britain, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Australia, Hong Kong, Macau, New

Rich nations, home to only 14 percent of the world’s populations, have bought 53 percent of the total stock of the most promising vaccines as of last month. distribution to 189 countries that have signed up for the program.

But such cooperation has not always been easy to achieve.

During the 2009 swine-flu outbreak, wealthy countries reserved huge numbers of vaccine doses for themselves, leaving low-income countries to rely on donations that would arrive much later. Today, these nationalist tendencies are evident in nations that have imposed export bans on face masks and ventilators.

Significantly, too, the United States and Russia are not members of the COVAX alliance. And even rich members of the alliance continue to cut their own deals with vaccine manufacturers, undermining the goal of equal distribution.

Writing in The Atlantic this month, Yasmeen Serhan notes that this go-it-alone approach doesn’t just hurt COVAX, it also risks per-

petuating harm to public health and the global economy.

Recent modeling by Northeastern University, she writes, shows that a proportional distribution of vaccines could avert nearly twice as many deaths as a vaccine distribution limited to only high-income countries.

Further modeling conducted by the Rand Corporation concluded that inequitable vaccine distribution could cost the global economy up to $1.2 trillion in gross domestic product. Conversely, if low- and middle-income countries were granted equal access, Rand said, the cost to the global economy would be considerably less.

“A collective response … doesn’t just make moral sense—it makes scientific sense,” a spokesperson for the vaccine alliance Gavi, which leads COVAX. “If rich countries monopolize vaccines at the outset, it will take us a lot longer, and many more people will die, than if we distribute on a global, equitable basis.”

“If the pandemic has cast doubt on the ability of countries to implement a multilateral response to a global problem, that portends poorly for other shared crises—not least climate change,” Serhan writes. “Both challenges require unprecedented collaboration. Both disproportionately affect low-income communities.

Neither can be averted by any single nation on the basis of wealth alone.”

President Duterte said as much when he recently addressed a special United Nations General Assembly meeting on COVID-19.

“If any country is excluded by reason of poverty or strategic unimportance, this gross injustice will haunt the world for a long time,” he said. “It will completely discredit the values upon which the United Nations was founded. We cannot let this happen. No one is safe unless everyone is safe.

Red-tagging ORDINARILY, children are supposed to bury their parents and not the other way around. But when it does happen, the pain and sorrow on the part of the parents becomes harder to bear. That must be what is going in the family of Bayan Muna Representative Eufemia Cullamat due to the death of her 22-year-old daughter, who was an active member of the New People’s Army in an armed encounter with elements of the Philippine Army in the town of Marihatog, Surigao del Sur. She was the only known casualty in that encounter. Her death was front-page news principally because of the position of the mother in the government. It has also brought to the forefront, in a stark manner, the ongoing controversy of the red-tagging debate.

For instance, a fair question to ask the mother is what she is doing in Congress while her daughter is taking up arms to overthrow the duly constituted government that she is in. Considering what has happened, should she now resign her position considering that her being in Congress might be considered by some to be untenable? The death of young Cullamat demonstrates the relationship that exists between those who govern and those who are governed. It is clear that there is a segment of our society who believes that the only way to change the prevailing established social order is by waging a revolutionary war.

Unfortunately, a lot of those who suffer and bear the brunt of this struggle

are the young idealistic segment of our society like Javelyn Cullamat. She will undoubtedly not be the last to die in this struggle. There are people who are violently against red-tagging for various reasons. They seem to forget, however, that there is a revolutionary war being waged to overthrow the government by a coalition of forces who profess the communist ideology.

The position of the military has hardened.

Peaceful dissent is allowed by our laws. What is not allowed is armed rebellion. When people take up arms against the government, they must be prepared for the consequences because the state has the right to protect itself. Sure, there are a lot of rotten things about our system: Corruption, drugs, crime, political dynasties, our economy being controlled by very few families. But would we be better off with the alternatives being proposed by those who are taking up arms to bring down our current social order?

I really doubt it. This Red-tagging thing is part of the battle being waged by the government to win the heart and minds of the public. It is the leftist effort while the military portion is the rightist effort.

This conflict has been going on for 50 years and over that time, the government has not been able to completely obliterate the CPP/NPA nor has the other side achieved anything resembling a strategic stalemate either. The CPP/NPA is still in the fringes of our society, trying very hard to overthrow the government principally

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by force of arms. The government on the other hand has not been able to institute enough reforms to satisfy dissenters in order for the CPP/NPA to simply disappear as an armed threat. We should therefore expect this problem to continue until a leader who can close the gap of dissatisfaction and make the CPP/NPA threat disappear comes around.

The CPP/NPA or the National Democratic Front will continue to have their underground military component which is the NPA and the above ground elements such as the so-called progressive organizations that can participate in political exercises such as elections. Some of these organizations are the ones that the Armed Forces would like to tag as Reds and prevented from participating in our political exercises. This might not be so easy to do unless they are declared as illegal political parties.

Maybe they should just be left as they are. After all, if one walks, looks and quacks like a duck, it must be a duck. The public is intelligent enough to discern which of these progressive parties are actually Reds. Furthermore, the best way to defeat the CPP/NPA is honest-to-goodness reform of the current political system. The CPP/NPA has tried over the last 50 years to gain footing in running the government. They had their best chance with President Duterte who as a former Mayor of Davao City established some sort of an alliance with the local Reds for peaceful coexistence. Unfortunately, they became greedy and wanted so much more and ended up with nothing. So, it is back to square one.

Now, the Armed Forces’ position has hardened. Maybe it believes that it is now in a better position to continue the fight in the courts as well as in the field of combat.

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

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An energy policy dilemma needing early solution

EDITORIAL

LONG with news that Britain has begun inoculating its health workers and vulnerable population against COVID-19 comes a warning that 90 percent of the people in poor nations could miss out on vaccinations against the disease because rich countries have hoarded far more doses than they need.

Adelle Chua, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

A PHRASE that is often used in discussions regarding governance and policymaking is “kicking the can down the road.”

It is a picturesque phrase, and it very aptly describes the situation where, instead of enacting needed policies, policymakers find reasons for not doing so and leave the tough decision making to their successors.

Something of monumental significance has come into the picture: Climate change.

One area of economic policymaking where successive administrations have been engaging in kicking-the-can-downthe-road is the mix of this country’s energy supply. The need to decide on the composition of this country’s energy mix continues to be dodged; that tough decision is poised from one administration to the next. Kicking the can down the road may have been tolerable government behavior for a long time, but that is no longer the case. Something of monumental significance has come into the picture: Climate change.

The warming of the globe has put an end to the energy policymakers’ leave-itto-the-next-administration mindset.

Several developments in recent years have placed Philippine energy policymaking at the crossroads. One is this country’s adherence to the Paris Climate Accord, which has now been strengthened by the US’ coming re-adherence to it. Another development is the increasing realization

by the main financiers of this country’s coal-fired power plants – the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank – that their energy-sector lending should be supportive of the goals of the Paris Climate Accord.

A third development that has been causing energy policymakers to take a hard look at Philippine energy policy is this country’s steadily-increasing vulnerability to natural disasters caused by global warming: Typhoons, floods, droughts and rising temperatures.

Under the Paris Climate Accord, the Philippines has committed itself to a level of carbon emissions by 2030. Critics of the Department of Energy’s continued grants of authority for the construction of coal-fired plants say that, with the DOES’s present attitude toward coal-fired power plants, there is no way the Philippines can fulfill its commitment under the Paris agreement. As things stand, this country is not on the way to doing so.

Apart from their desire to be supportive of the Paris Climate Accord, the multilateral financiers of this country’s coal-fired power projects, especially ADB, are increasingly being targeted by the critics of present Philippine energy policy. The financiers are being told to put their money where their development principles are.

The severe weather disturbances of 2020, especially Rolly and Ulysses, have put even more pressure on the Department of Energy to review its policy on coal-fired plants with a view to reducing regulatory approvals for such projects. With every year that passes, and with every new Rolly and Yolanda, the pressure intensifies.

This presents a very serious dilemma for this country’s energy policymakers.

Coal-fired plants will have to provide the baseload for Philippine energy supply in the medium term if an energy deficit is to be avoided. But they realize that the changing global situation requires them to move energy policy increasingly in the direction of renewable energy.

It is a dilemma they will have to resolve soon.

Secure the cold chain

RECENT developments in the clinical trials of vaccines against COVID-19 continue to highlight the strong spirit of the Filipinos. While the government has already laid down its prioritization in the distribution and administration of the vaccine once it becomes available, there are more important things that need to be ironed out before we can take it easy.

The vaccines to be procured by the government are abroad. With this, there remains the problem of ensuring that these are safely transported to the country, without compromising its potency.

The Palace has early on assured us that funds will be available for the transport and storage of the COVID-19 vaccines.

However, apart from the funds, we need to make sure that proper cold chain equipment and facilities are in place.

Due to the sensitivity of vaccines to temperature, they are transported through a cold chain system. Studies have noted that a crack in the cold chain could render useless 30 percent of the vaccines being transported. At present, the vaccines being developed have varying temperature requirements which will become a problem given our existing available facilities. The Research Institute on Tropical Medicine (RITM) is currently the national storage facility for vaccines, but, as the Department of Health (DOH) said earlier, the RITM is made to store routine vaccines. Our available storage facilities are able to maintain vaccines at -20 degrees Celsius. However, western COVID-19 vaccines require colder temperatures.

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine requires -70 degrees celsius storage to maintain its efficacy. Moderna vaccine only requires -20 degrees Celsius, while the vaccine by AstraZeneca allegedly can be stored in normal fridge temperature.

The DOH has earlier expressed that it doesn’t have the ultra-high cold chain storage facilities. This poses a problem

to the procurement of vaccines needing such facility. More than that, the geographical challenge to the movement and distribution of the vaccines still needs to be dealt with.

The government aims to procure at least 50 million doses of vaccines to administer to at least 25 million individuals in order to reach what they call herd immunity. With such a large number, this understandably may take years to be fully implemented, but we need to set up facilities as early as now to prepare for national distribution. From the manufacturer, to the airport, to the storage facility, up to the health facility at the barangay level where the vaccine will be administered, the cold chain system should be without any flaw to ensure no wastage of vaccines.

There are more important things that need to be ironed out before we can take it easy.

The national government should also provide adequate support to the local government units who will be implementing the vaccination. There should be clear cut guidelines on the priority list, as well as schedule of vaccine administration. Health workers and health professionals in local health facilities which will serve as venues for the vaccination should be trained well and provided with the necessary supplies and equipment.

More importantly, the national government, particularly the Department of Health, should ensure that the vaccine is safe and effective before approving its use. We do not want to put the lives of the people in jeopardy.

Many are hoping that the vaccine will be the end of it all. However, let us not hurry at the expense of safety. Many are hesitant to be vaccinated for many reasons. The DOH should conduct an information drive on the vaccine and explain its benefits and possible risks.

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor Opinion Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Jimbo Owen Gulle City Editor Lino M. Santos Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

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World

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

French president seeks new law against radicalization PRESIDENT Emmanuel Macron will on Wednesday seek his cabinet’s blessing for a draft law targeting radicalization, which some fear will stigmatize the French Muslim community, Europe’s largest.

The text was originally titled the “antiseparatism” bill, using a term Macron uses to describe ultra-conservative Muslims withdrawing from mainstream society.

Following criticism of that term, it is now called a “draft law to strengthen republi-

can values”, mostly secularism and freedom of expression.

The law was in the pipeline before the murder in October of Samuel Paty, a junior high school teacher who was attacked in the street and beheaded after showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohamed in a civics class.

But the killing, committed by an 18year old Chechen after a virulent social media campaign against the teacher, gave fresh impetus to the bill, prompted the

Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines National Capital Judicial RegionTODAY REGIONAL TRIAL COURT Branch 84, Quezon City IN RE: PETITION FOR NATURALIZATION OF EMILY ROSE FAST, Petitioner. x--------------------------------------------x SP. PROC. NO. R-QZN-19-18790-SP

ORDER and NOTICE OF HEARING On December 18, 2019 Petitioner through counsel, filed this verified Petition praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued granting the Petition by declaring that petitioner has all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications for acquisition of Philippine citizenship thru naturalization under C.A. 473; and issuing an order that a Naturalization Certificate be issued and that said Naturalization Certificate be registered in the appropriate civil registry.

Brieftly, the petitioner alleged that she is a Canadian Citizen, of legal age, single, born in Langley,Canada on 3 September 1996 and presently residing at No. 85B Pingkian 1, Brgy. Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City; that the petitioner was a resident of 8835-213 Street, Langley, British Columbia, Canada; that she is a daughter of Pastor Michael John Fast and Eva Rose Wiebe who are residing in the Philippines for more than 23 years doing missionary works with the Baptist Conference in the Philippines; that at the age of 3, Petitioner and her family came to reside in the Philippines. They arrived in the Philippines on September 8, 1999 together with her parents who came here in pursuit of their missionary works. They landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on board Japan Airlines with Flight No. JL745 and Petitioner was carrying Passport No. VG891161 issued by the Government of Canada. Such fact is shown at the Certification issued by the Bureau of Immigration; that petitioner holds an Alien Certificate of Registration No. G1906013876TV with SSRN No. 1410EF1209234726 issued by the Philippine Government which is valid until June 25, 2020 and a holder of Canadian Passport No. HM689374 valid until November 15, 2026; that petitioner holds an Alien Certificate of Registration No. G1906013876TV with SRRN No. 1410EF4209234726 issued by the Philippine Government which is valid until June 25, 2020; that having resided in the Philippines at an early age, Petitioner started and completed her schooling in the country and which is detailed as follows: Pre-school – SEATS Preschool – 670 Edsa, Brgy. E. Rodriguez, Cubao, Quezon City; Primary – Gospel Light Christian Academy – Matahimik St., cor. V. Luna, Brgy. Malaya, Quezon City; Secondary – Gospel Light Christian Academy – Matahimik St., cor. V. Luna, Brgy. Malaya, Quezon City; Tertiary – University of the Philippines Diliman – Bachelor of Arts in Film – Magna Cum Laude (2013-2018); that presently, Petitioner is a freelance photographer, videographer and film maker. She is also is the official film maker for the Baptist General Conference of Canada and was assigned in the Philippines to assist the South East Asian Theology Schools, Inc. in filming lecture videos; that in pursuit of her missionary works, Petitioner teaches in Pingkian Kid’s Net (2013 to present). This is a weekly values class for local children from the ages of 3 up to 12 years old. Together with 9 other missionary workers, Petitioner teaches lessons, prepares the activities and cooks snacks for the kids of Pingkian 1 Central, Brgy. Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City; that she is also a Leader of the Pingkian Youth Ministry (2014-present). This is a weekly gathering wherein around 30 youth of the community come together to discuss the Bible in Pingkian 1, Central, Brgy.

Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City; that she acts as the Secretary of Pingkian 1 Neighbor Youth Association (PINYA) (2013-present) in Pingkian 1 Central, Brgy. Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City. This is a government-recognized association that promotes community service and involvement of the youth in local events. As a member of PINYA, she is involved in different activities like organizing Christmas presentations, holding workshops, setting up garage sales, street-sweeping, and other community activities; that petitioner likewise, is a Sunday School Teacher of the Metro Manila Bible Community (MMBC) (215-present) in 19 Col. Salgado St., Brgy. West Kamias, Quezon City. This involves teaching Bible stories and values lessons to children every Sunday; that petitioner was a member of the University of the Philippines Cinema Arts Society (UP CAST) (2013-2017) and served as Secretary; that all of the foregoing activities and membership in different organizations establishes the strong tie of the Petitioner with the Filipinos and through such constant association, she can fluently speak in Pilipino/Tagalog, learned to love and embrace the Filipino culture, customs and traditions; and that she has been residing in the Philippines for more than 20 years particularly at the address stated above and has been a law-abiding resident of Barangay Pasong Tamo, Quezon City; that petitioner seeks to acquire Philippine Citizenship thru naturalization under Commonwealth Act No. 473 (C.A. 473) otherwise known as “ An Act to Provide for the Acquisition of Philippine Citizenship by Naturalization; that petitioner has complied with all the other formal and substantial requirements under C.A. 473 for the acquisition of Philippine Citizenship thru naturalization including age and years of residence in the Philippines; that she possesses all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications set forth in C.A. 473; that in the 20 years of petitioner’s stay in the Philippines, she was able to establish and maintain a good reputation among her students, peers, religious group, classmates and within the community; that petitioner has never directly or indirectly disobeyed the Philippine Constitution since she believes in the underlying principles thereof; that neither did she transgressed any laws and regulations for the period of her stay in the Philippines; that since 2013, petitioner serves as the Secretary of Pingkian I Neighbor Youth Association (PINYA) in Pingkian 1 Central, Brgy. Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City; that not only moderate knowledge of conversational Pilipino Tagalog, Petitioner can speak Pilipino/Tagalog fluently having been raised and lived in the Philippines since age of 3. In fact, her accent and the way she pronounces Tagalog words will let one think or believe that one speaking is Filipina – not a foreign national.

She is likewise fluent in English; that she does not defend or teach necessity of violence, personal assault or assassination for the predominance of ideas that she is not a polygamist or believer in the practice of polygamy; that petitioner have not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude; that petitioner is not suffering from mental alienation or any incurable contagious disease; that petitioner has socially mingled with Filipinos.

Her various missionary activities and membership is different organizations establishes the strong tie of the Petitioner with the Filipinos and through such constant association, she learned to love and embrace the culture, customs, traditions and ideals of Filipinos; that petitioner is a national of Canada which country grants Filipinos the right to become a naturalized citizen or subject thereof; that she believes in the underlying principles of the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and undertakes to preserve and protect the same; that petitioner will continue to reside in the Philippines from the date of filing of this petition up to the time of her acquisition of Philippine Citizenship; and that upon being admitted as Filipino citizen, petitioner will renounce her allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, protectorate, state or sovereignty and particularly to Canada of which she is a citizen at present.

NOTICE is hereby given that the instant petition will be heard before this Court sitting at Room 105, Hall of Justice Building, Quezon City on JUNE 7, 2021 at 8:30 in the morning (in-court hearing) at which date and time, all persons interested and concerned may appear and show cause, if any, why the petition should not be granted.

Let this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation to be chosen by raffle, the last publication of which shall be at least more than four (4) months before the date of hearing. Petitioner is ordered to serve a copy of the Petition upon the Office of the Solicitor General and the respondents, and to submit proof of service thereof at least ten (10) days prior to the date of scheduled hearing. The respondents and/or any interested person may file opposition thereto within fifteen (15) days from notice of this Order or from the last date of publication of this Order.

The Court further orders counsel and petitioner to submit their email addresses within 15 calendar days from receipt hereof and/or send in advance to the official email of the courtindicated below.

SO ORDERED. Given this 23rd day of September 2020 at Quezon City, Metro Manila.

(Sgd.) HON. LUISITO G. CORTEZ Presiding Judge cc: Atty. LELAND R. LOPEZ Counsel for the Petitioner Block 5, Lot 14, Sampaguita St., Palmera Homes Phase II, Brgy. Sta. Monica, Novaliches, Quezon City EMILY ROSE FAST Petitioner No. 85B Pingkian I, Brgy. Pasong Tamo, Tandang Sora, Quezon City Office of the Solicitor General No. 134 Amorsolo Street Legaspi Village, Makati City Local Civil Registrar Quezon City National Statistics Office East Avenue, Quezon City City Prosecutor’s Office 4th Floor, Quezon City Hall of Justice Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION and DEPORTATION Port Area, Intramuros, Manila

(MStandard - Dec. 10, 17 & 24, 2020)

inclusion of the specific crimes of online hate speech and divulging personal information on the internet.

Paty’s death is one in a string of jihadistinspired attacks in France which include the 2015 shooting sprees at satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo and the Bataclan concert hall; and the stabbings at a church in the Mediterranean city of Nice the same year.

Nice was also the scene of a 2016 attack that killed 86 people when a man rammed

a truck into Bastille Day revellers.

Acknowledging that Islamist radicalisation can be homegrown as well as imported, the government is targeting associations and mosques in France that it suspects of spreading jihadist ideology.

The law would make it easier to stop them receiving foreign financing, and would also offer protection to moderate community leaders who are in danger of being toppled by an extremist “putsch”. AFP

US Supreme Court rejects Trump’s Pennsylvania bid T Manila

Standard

TODAY

HE US Supreme Court dealt the latest blow Tuesday to Donald Trump’s effort to overturn his election loss when it denied his allies’ attempt to block the certification of votes in key state Pennsylvania.

The nation’s highest court, which includes three Trump-appointed justices out of nine, did not explain its decision, and none of the members expressed dissent.

More than a month since the November 3 election, Trump still refuses to concede to Democrat Joe Biden—who has a seven millionvote lead—and continues to make baseless claims of fraud.

Trump and his allies have filed dozens of lawsuits in several key

states, almost all of which have been thrown out by the courts.

One of them, brought by Republican congressman Mike Kelly, challenged the legality of mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state.

Biden carried Pennsylvania in November’s vote, four years after Trump won the state.

After the case was rejected by the state supreme court, the plaintiffs turned to the national Supreme

Court, asking it to freeze all electoral operations while they developed their arguments.

In dismissing the case, the Court put an end to the procedure and signaled that it was not inclined to get involved in post-election litigation.

Trump had hoped that the high court, whose bench he has tipped solidly to the right, would intervene in his favor.

In 2000, the Supreme Court halted a recount in Florida, where George W. Bush was only 537 votes ahead of Democrat Al Gore, allowing the Republican to win the election.

The Republican-led state of Texas filed another appeal Tuesday to the Supreme Court, requesting the invalidation of results in four key states, but experts were not optimistic regarding its chance of success. AFP

CONTROVERSIAL. French President Emmanuel Macron adjusts his helmet as he visits the French nuclear reactor manufacturer Framatome production site in Le Creusot, central France, on December 8, 2020. AFP

Kim’s sister slams Sokor’s envoy over virus claim THE sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has slammed the South’s foreign minister as “impudent” for casting doubt over Pyongyang’s claim that the country has no coronavirus cases, state media reported Wednesday.

Nuclear-armed Pyongyang closed its borders in January, sealing itself off from the outside world in an effort to avoid contamination, and has long insisted that it has had no cases.

Kim himself reiterated the claim at a huge military parade in October.

Experts suggest it is unlikely, given that the virus first emerged in neighboring China, its main provider of trade and aid.

South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha told a forum in Bahrain on

Saturday that it was “hard to believe” that the North had no coronavirus cases, adding that Pyongyang had been unresponsive to Seoul’s offers to help tackle the disease.

The pandemic “in fact has made North Korea more North Korea -- ie more closed, very top-down decisionmaking process where there is very little debate on their measures dealing with Covid-19”, Kang said.

“All signs are that the regime is very intensely focused on controlling the disease that they say they don’t have.”

Kim Yo Jong, sister and key adviser to the North Korean leader, condemned Kang in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency on Wednesday, calling her comments “im-

pudent” and accusing her of seeking to worsen the already strained inter-Korean relationship.

“It can be seen from the reckless remarks made by her without any consideration of the consequences that she is too eager to further chill the frozen relations between the north and south of Korea,” Kim said.

“We will never forget her words and she might have to pay dearly for it.”

The statement came with discussions between Pyongyang and both Washington and Seoul at a standstill following the collapse of the 2019 Hanoi summit between Kim and US President Donald Trump over what the North would be willing to give up in exchange for sanctions relief. AFP

IN BRIEF UN raises $370-M emergency fund as response to 2021 crises THE United Nations announced Tuesday it has raised more than $370 million for its emergency fund to help respond to crises in 2021.

More than 50 donors pledged money to the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, managed by the under-secretarygeneral for humanitarian affairs, Mark Lowcock, according to a statement.

The donors were not identified.

“This fund is one of the fastest ways to help people trapped both in sudden-onset and deteriorating crises, as well as underfunded ones that are not at the top of the world’s radar,” said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during a videoconference of donors held at the body’s headquarters.

Created in 2005, the fund “has helped millions of people get food, health care, shelter and protection this year,” Lowcock said.

In 2020, CERF helped 65 million people in 52 countries and territories, for a total amount of more than $900 million.

The money was used to fight the Covid-19 pandemic and other diseases, as well as for relief from conflicts or natural disasters, or to avoid famine, according to the statement.

The donors’ conference for the emergency fund comes a few days after the UN published its estimate of humanitarian needs for 160 million people in 2021, a total of $35 billion. AFP

Japan to build 2 ships with missile interceptors JAPAN will build two ships equipped with Aegis missile interceptors after public opposition forced the government to scrap deployment of a costly land-based system, the country’s defense minister said Wednesday.

Earlier this year, Japan decided to suspend unpopular plans to deploy the USdeveloped Aegis Ashore defense system in northeastern Akita and western Yamaguchi prefectures amid technical problems and swelling costs.

As an alternative, Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi told a ruling party meeting, the government hopes “to build two vessels equipped with the Aegis system.”

Officials aim to win cabinet approval as early as next week, public broadcaster NHK reported.

The prime minister’s top spokesman Katsunobu Kato later said that the proposal “is aimed at establishing a system of defending the whole of Japan continuously with a ballistic missile defense system.”

The Aegis Ashore purchase was approved in 2017, at an estimated cost of $4.2 billion over three decades. It is not immediately clear what the cost of a deployed system on ships will be.

The system’s purchase was seen both as part of attempts by Tokyo to bolster its defensive capabilities after successive North Korean missile launches but also as a way to foster closer ties with Washington under US President Donald Trump, who pushed allies to buy more American military equipment. AFP

France probes crash of rescue chopper in Alps FRENCH investigators were Wednesday seeking to ascertain the cause of the crash of a mountain rescue helicopter in the Alps that left five dead with only the pilot surviving but badly wounded.

The helicopter, an Airbus EC135 operated by a private firm, crashed Tuesday evening around the town of Bonvillard just outside Albertville, one of the main resorts in the French Alps.

The prefect, the top local official, for the Savoy region Pascal Bolot said of the five passengers and pilot on board only the pilot had survived but was badly wounded.

Despite difficult weather conditions with fog at the crash site 1,800 metres (6,000 feet) above sea level, he was evacuated to hospital. Bolot said it was the pilot himself who had raised the alarm.

He added that an investigation has been opened by the prosecutor for Albertville but did not offer any explanation over how the crash happened.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin is also due at the scene later Wednesday. Investigators from France’s Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis agency for aviation are also set to arrive. AFP

IS jihadists occupy North Sinai villages RESIDENTS of Egypt’s restive North Sinai region ran for their lives when an Islamic State group affiliate occupied their villages. Now, they are returning to find their homes booby-trapped.

“I lost my sister-in-law and her nine-month-old baby when an explosive device planted in their home went off,” said a young resident of Aqtiya village, who asked not to be named for fear of repercussions.

Around 15 people have been killed by improvised explosive devices since mid-October in villages around Bir alAbd, in the northwest of the troubled province, say Egyptian security sources.

The IED attacks that have multiplied in the vast, remote and sparsely populated region which authorities have declared off-limits to journalists recall those the IS launched to sow terror in Iraq and Syria.

The recent deaths have badly shaken the 1,000 or so residents who returned in October after seeking refuge

elsewhere in Egypt for three months as the army continued its grinding battle to crush IS. Another resident, speaking to AFP by phone, said locals found IS had taken over their homes, used them as hideouts and then booby-trapped them.

“They even stole our livestock,” he added.

Egyptian security forces have been battling a long-running Islamist insurgency in the Sinai Peninsula, spearheaded by a local IS affiliate.

The fighting intensified after the military’s 2013 ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. In February 2018, security forces launched a nationwide operation against militants, focused on the sparsely populated North Sinai.

The Egyptian army said Tuesday that since September it had killed 40 suspected jihadist militants in air and ground operations in the Sinai region, and that seven of its own personnel had been either wounded or killed. AFP

FARMERS’ PROTEST. A fuel pump attendant fills a tractor with diesel provided by

supporters to farmers heading to Delhi to join the farmers protests against the recent agricultural reforms, at a gas station on the outskirts of Amritsar on December 9, 2020. AFP

Business

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020 || extrastory2000@gmail.com

Stock market drops; ICTSI, Dito lead losers S TOP GAINERS PSEi December 9, 2020

1

AR

LAST PRICE 0.0021

% CHANGE CHANGE 0.0006 40.00%

2 3 4

TFC OPM OPMB

46 0.012 0.012

7.9 0.002 0.002

20.73% 20.00% 20.00%

5 6 7

APL CYBR ACEX

0.067 0.38 11

0.009 0.035 1

15.52% 10.14% 10.00%

8 9 10

FAF OV SCC

0.67 0.0093 13.48

0.06 0.0008 0.94

9.84% 9.41% 7.50%

TOCKS fell Wednesday on profit taking, while the rest of Asian markets rallied as investors cheered news that the White House had put forward a fresh stimulus proposal of more than $900 billion, lifting hopes US lawmakers could pass a deal before Christmas.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index dropped 101.01 points, or 1.4 percent, to 7,102.66 on a value turnover of P9.9 billion. Gainers, however, beat losers, 132 to 117, with 27 issues unchanged.

International Container Terminal Services Inc., the biggest port operator and owned by tycoon Enrique Razon Jr., declined 5.2 percent to P119.40, while Dito CME Holdings Corp., the third major telecommunications firm, retreated 4.7 percent to P7.25.

Conglomerate Ayala Corp. fell 4.6 percent to P820, but Nickel Asia Corp., the largest nickel producer, rose 5 percent to P5.

Meanwhile, the prospect of a rescue package for the world’s top economy helped revive equities, which have drifted for most of the month after November’s surge, while the rollout of vaccines in Britain and imminent authorization in the US has added to the optimism.

However, spiking virus cases around the world and the imposition of tough containment measures continues to cast

a long, dark shadow over trading floors.

Tokyo and Wellington rose more than one percent, Seoul added two percent and Hong Kong put on 0.8 percent, while Sydney, Mumbai, Singapore, Taipei and Bangkok were also higher.

But Shanghai fell more than one percent as investors fret over data showing consumer prices fell last month for the first time in 11 years, fueling worries about the crucial retail sector.

Regional investors were given a strong lead from Wall Street, where the Nasdaq and S&P 500 notched up fresh records.

“With the markets starting to exhibit some year-end fatigue, any stimulus holiday stocking-stuffer will come at a most welcome time and ensure that well-subscribed equity markets will cross the year-end finishing line on a

White House proposes new stimulus plan worth $916b

TOP LOSERS 1

SFIP

LAST PRICE 1.51

% CHANGE CHANGE -0.29 -16.11%

2 3 4

FEU MAHB PHES

582 1.95 0.39

-68 -0.18 -0.035

-10.46% -8.45% -8.24%

5 6 7 8 9 10

DFNN LFM MRC ICT MJIC DITO

5.87 55 0.485 119.4 1.8 7.25

-0.48 -4.2 -0.035 -6.6 -0.09 -0.36

-7.56% -7.09% -6.73% -5.24% -4.76% -4.73%

MOST ACTIVE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

MBT DITO ALI BDO MPI BPI AC SM SMPH ICT

VOLUME 15,335,050 98,138,500 11,126,800 3,867,920 85,933,000 4,549,550 415,850 290,415 6,796,300 2,074,770

VALUE (PHP) 790,666,574.00 720,108,272.00 435,956,155.00 419,242,958.00 376,455,420.00 376,195,680.00 350,009,165.00 304,025,745.00 260,115,065.00 253,801,303.00

Johnson traveling to Brussels in a bid to save Brexit deal LONDON—Prime Minister Boris Johnson was Brussels-bound on Wednesday, with Britain’s fading hopes for a post-Brexit trade deal hanging on crisis talks with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen.

Johnson’s dash back to the city where once he made his name as an EU-bashing newspaper reporter marks the last chance of a breakthrough before Britain leaves the EU single market.

Talks are blocked over the issue of fair competition, with Britain refusing to accept a mechanism to allow the EU to retaliate swiftly if the UK business regulations change in ways that put European firms at a disadvantage.

EU negotiator Michel Barnier and his UK counterpart David Frost have narrowed the gaps over eight months of talks, but London insists it will reclaim full sovereignty at the end of the year after half-a-century of close economic integration.

If Britain leaves the EU single market in three weeks without a follow-on trade deal the delays that travelers and freight will face at its borders with the European Union will be compounded by import tariffs that will drive up prices.

Johnson spoke to Von der Leyen on Monday by telephone to secure the last chance dinner invitation after Barnier and Frost’s negotiations broke off without agreement.

He will travel by plane and arrive late Wednesday for talks at the Berlaymont building, the EU headquarters he once wrongly reported was slated for demolition when he covered Brussels as a newspaper journalist in the early 1990s.

But officials on both sides expressed pessimism ahead of the last-ditch encounter.

“I am always hopeful, but I have to be honest with you, the situation at the moment is tricky,” Johnson said as he toured a London hospital on Tuesday.

“Our friends have to understand the UK has left the EU to exercise democratic control. We are a long way apart still,” he said. AFP

positive note,” said Axi strategist Stephen Innes.

Eyes are also on Brussels, where UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is due to hold crunch talks with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on a post-Brexit trade deal.

Equities have struggled this week as focus has been on the disease but US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin provided a much-needed shot in the arm Tuesday when he said he had presented Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi with a new economic rescue package.

The $916-billion plan is bigger than the $908-billion proposal put forward last week by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, and Mnuchin said it includes money for state and local governments and “robust liability protections for businesses, schools and universities.” With AFP

VIRUS-FREE CORRIDOR. Passengers who just landed from New York on an Alitalia flight fill a form as they wait to undergo a rapid antigen swab test for COVID-19 on December 9, 2020 at a testing station set up at Rome’s Fiumicino airport, as part of Italy’s first coronavirus-free corridor with the United States. Italy launched Europe’s first coronavirus-free corridor with the United States for passengers who have tested negative for COVID-19, scrapping the obligation for new arrivals to quarantine, after Rome’s Fiumicino airport sealed a deal with Italian airline Alitalia and Delta Air Lines of the United States for the special flights between selected North American cities and the Italian capital. AFP

Dutch ‘vegetarian butcher’ carves new niche for Unilever

By Danny Kemp ETTEN-LEUR, Netherlands—When ninthgeneration Dutch farmer Jaap Korteweg turned vegetarian and set up a shop selling meat-free products over a decade ago, his friends thought he was joking.

But the founder of “The Vegetarian Butcher” had the last laugh when the company was gobbled up by BritishDutch consumer giant Unilever in 2018.

Unilever has now put the firm at the heart of its plans to carve out a onebillion-euro ($1.2-billion) a year slice of the increasingly juicy global market for meat-free products.

“It’s a dream that comes true for me,” Korteweg told AFP at the site of a grass-roofed, eco-friendly house he has built on former farmland that has been returned to nature.

“I’m a ninth generation farmer, grew up on the countryside of the Netherlands, between the bulls and the cows for milk,” he adds.

“So it’s not logical maybe that I did it this way for the Vegetarian Butcher. But what I now see is that my family and my brother and sisters are very positive

File photo taken on August 15, 2013 shows the logo of the Vegetarian Butcher concept store in the Hague. AFP

about this transformation and the new business.”

Once a self-confessed “big meat lover,” Korteweg says his conversion

came 20 years ago, when he was asked to store dead pigs in his cold storage areas during a swine fever outbreak.

“For me that was the moment to stop it, I’d had enough of that system using animals for meat,” he said–although giving up eating meat was “not easy” and “like stopping smoking or drugs.”

‘Dream come true’ Korteweg then created a small “butcher’s shop” in The Hague using expert chefs to come up with vegan and vegetarian alternatives to bacon, meatballs, mince, kebabs and other meat products.

“My goal was to become the biggest butcher in the world as soon as possible, and at that time people laughed at it because they don’t take it seriously,” he said.

“But for me I took it serious because I wanted to create an alternative for the industrial meat.”

The company expanded and its profile rose, producing a range of quirkilynamed vegan products for sale in supermarkets, including “Little Willies” sausages, which made headlines in Britain for their risque name. AFP

WASHINGTON—The White House unveiled a $916-billion stimulus proposal on Tuesday in a final dash to break a months-long logjam over new aid for the coronavirus-stricken US economy before President Donald Trump leaves office in January.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced the plan, which he said includes “money for state and local governments and robust liability protections for businesses, schools and universities.”

Those elements have been key sticking points in negotiations between Democratic and Republican lawmakers.

The proposal comes weeks before Trump is set to hand over power to President-elect Joe Biden and a new Congress takes office, and as the country struggles with the world’s worst COVID-19 outbreak that has caused the worst economic downturn in a century.

“I look forward to achieving bipartisan agreement so we can provide this critical economic relief to American workers, families and businesses,” Mnuchin said in a statement.

The new proposal is slightly larger than a $908-billion compromise unveiled by a bipartisan group of senators last week.

Mnuchin said he presented the package to Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and had reviewed it with Trump and Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

“Bipartisan talks are the best hope for a bipartisan solution,” Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement.

But “the President’s proposal starts by cutting the unemployment insurance proposal being discussed by bipartisan Members of the House and Senate from $180 billion to $40 billion,” the officials continued. “That is unacceptable.” AFP

Pending Congress bill to cause the collapse of small local contractors THE pandemic has made the Philippine construction sector a laggard in the economy.

Limited public transportation as imposed by strict quarantine rules has hampered the mobility of our workers to go to construction sites, resulting in a 40-percent contraction of the sector in the third quarter of the year. And the construction industry is set to face a more destructive second wave if Congress passes a bill granting unregulated entry to foreign contractors.

Local contractors are strongly opposing House Bill (HB) 7337 that seeks to amend Republic Act (RA) 4566, or the Contractors’ License Law. The proposal plans to grant foreign contractors a regular license that is exclusive to companies with at least 60-percent Filipino equity.

Local builders naturally are alarmed by the proposed amendment. D.M. Consunji Inc. president and chief executive officer Jorge Consunji has warned that removing the current regulations favoring Filipino contractors will “open the floodgates to unregulated entry of foreign-owned construction companies.”

“This will kill the local construction industry, and the entry of unqualified foreign contractors cause a danger to public safety,” Consunji told the House Committee on Trade and Industry

during a recent virtual hearing on HB 7337.

The committee’s chair and author of the bill, Valenzuela City Rep. Wes Gatchalian, claimed the measure would level the playing field in the construction industry by encouraging competition, and lead to a transfer of technology from foreign contractors.

Mr. Consunji is not convinced, stressing a balance between equal opportunities to foreign contractors and the protection of local players must be kept, especially those in the micro, small and medium enterprises.

“While the proposed bill seeks to provide a level playing field, this must be balanced to protect the country’s vulnerable sectors and workforce, particularly the MSMEs that have been heavily impacted by the ongoing pandemic,” says Consunji.

Philippine Constructors Association president Will Decena agrees with Consunji, citing that the MSME sector makes up some 97 percent of local contractors.

“The unregulated entry of foreign contractors will adversely affect small and medium-sized Filipino contractors.

We will even deprive Filipinos of job opportunities in our own country,” says Decena. “We reiterate that foreign contractors have the tendency to bring their own people even for jobs than can be performed by Filipinos.”

Another industry leader, DATEM Inc. chair and CEO Levi Espiritu, says industry concerns, such as reciprocity, technological transfer, capacity-building and compliance with local rules and regulations, should be fully addressed.

Espiritu said the government must assure that the same incentives and privileges extended to foreign contractors should also be given to local contractors.

“Correspondingly, foreign contractors should comply with whatever regulatory requirements such as, but not limited to, payment of necessary taxes; putting up of equity and investments; and structural warranties for materials, manpower, and equipment, which also are required for local contractors,” Espiritu said.

The local construction industry employs around 4.2 million Filipinos, making it the largest direct job generator in the last 10 years. The sector has been a major driver of economic growth until COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the Philippines.

Engineer Wilfredo Hilao Guerzon Jr. of Davao-based FGM Builders Resources & Development Corp. noted that the very survival of the MSMEs in the construction sector is being threatened by the adverse impact of the pandemic.

“And with the entry of foreign companies under the guise of leveling

the playing field, it will hasten the death of many small local players reeling from the economic slump,” adds Guerzon.

Fortunately, some lawmakers are on the same page with small local contractors. For one, Senate Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri has sought the firm commitment of Public Works Secretary Mark Villar to support a legislation he will file to limit the participation of foreign firms in local infrastructure projects.

Zubiri said his constituents in Bukidnon and Cagayan De Oro brought to his attention their serious concerns on moves to ease the rule that will allow more foreign contractors to compete with local companies.

“We have so much manpower here, especially now that the pandemic has displaced so many people from previous jobs. There are also large numbers of displaced OFWs coming home and seeking employment,” says Zubiri.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

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

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

IN BRIEF

Meralco announces lower December rates

MANILA Electric Company said Wednesday customers will experience another downward adjustment in power rates for December as the overall rate for a typical household fell P0.0352 per kilowatthour to P8.4753 per kWh from last month’s P8.5105 per kWh. Meralco assistant vice president and spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga said the new rate is equivalent to a decrease of around P7 in the monthly bill of residential customers consuming 200 kWh. “This the second lowest overall power rate in more than three years, or since September 2017,” Zaldarraiga said.

This month’s overall rate also represents a net rate reduction of P1.3870 per kWh, equivalent to bill reduction of more than P277 for a 200 kWh household since the start of the year.

Meralco’s generation charge decreased

by P0.0502 per kWh to P4.1516 per kWh in December from P4.2018 per kWh in November. Alena Mae S. Flores

Solar PH on track to build 1,000 MW

SOLAR Philippines Inc. said Wednesday it is on track to construct more than 1,000 megawatts of solar projects in 2021 in the provinces of Batangas, Cavite, Nueva Ecija and Tarlac.

“These projects will nearly double the country’s total installed solar capacity as of 2020, and are equivalent to the power demand of approximately 10 million Filipinos,” Solar Philippines said in a statement.

The company cited data from the Department of Energy that these projects would include the first, second and third largest solar projects in the Philippines.

Solar Philippines is expanding its solar farm in Concepcion, Tarlac to 200 MW by 2021 from 150 MW, making it larger than any solar project completed in the Philippines.

By 2022, Solar Philippines expects these projects to become the largest single portfolio of solar projects in Southeast Asia.

“The 1 GW of solar projects are planned to create over 20,000 jobs during construction, which will last until 2022, and support government efforts to boost investments in the countryside,” the company said.

Alena Mae S. Flores

SMC allots P5.54b for Quezon toll road

THE tollway unit of San Miguel Corp. said Wednesday it is spending P6.74 billion to partially fund the construction of a toll road from Batangas to Quezon and the maintenance and building of additional toll plaza in South Luzon Expressway.

South Luzon Tollways Corp. said it would earmark P5.54 billion for the construction of TR4—a four-lane toll road from Sto. Tomas in Batangas to Lucena City, Quezon—and the widening of South Luzon Expressway.

The P26.1-billion toll road will shorten the travel time from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Barangay Mayao in Lucena City from the usual three hours to just 45 minutes.

The project is expected to be completed by 2024.

TR4 is a part of SLTC’s 30-year concession which will last until 2036.

SLTC also allocated P931.9 million for tollway facility improvement, replacement of various toll equipment and preventive maintenance for toll collection system/ network enhancement project.

Darwin G. Amojelar

Business

Metro Pacific, Keppel to buy Subic oil storage for $334m

By Jenniffer B. Austria

M

ETRO Pacific Investments Corp. said Wednesday it teamed up with Keppel Infrastructure Trust of Singapore to acquire 100 percent of Philippine Tank Storage International Holdings Inc., which owns the country’s largest petroleum import storage facility in Subic Bay, for $334 million.

Metro Pacific said in a disclosure to the stock exchange that it and KIT signed an agreement with Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte. Limited, Government Service Insurance System and Langoer Investments Holding B.V. 2O purchase 100 percent of the total issued capital stock of PTSI that owns Philippine Coastal Storage & Pipeline Corp.

Metro Pacific said it will initially acquire a 20-percent stake in the company that will have full ownership in PCSPC

for $67 million, with an option to increase it to 50 percent. The acquisition will enable it to diversify its portfolio and revenue streams in a new industry vertical with strong growth potential, it said.

PCSPC is the largest independent storage facility in the Philippines with a capacity of 6 million barrels once the current expansion plan is completed by early 2021. It generates stable cash flows via take-or-pay contracts with high-quality off-takers.

“With PCSPC accounting for 36 per-

cent of the total import terminal storage requirements of the Philippines, MPIC sees this facility as vital energy infrastructure for the country. MPIC and its strategic partner KIT look forward to further expanding the capacity of PCSPC to provide millions of Filipinos with added energy security,” Metro Pacific chairman Manuel Pangilinan said.

Matthew Pollard, chief executive of Keppel Infrastructure Fund Management Pte. Ltd., the trustee-manager of KIT, said the acquisition would enable KIT to diversify, grow and strengthen its distributable cash flow.

“As the largest petroleum products import storage facility in the Philippines, where demand for petroleum products is expected to grow, PCSPC presents an attractive opportunity for KIT to capture opportunities arising from the strong macroeconomic outlook as well as robust growth fundamentals for imported petroleum products in the Philippines,” Pollard said.

SAUDI WATER CONTRACT. Manila Water Company’s consortium with French water distributor Saur Group and Saudi Arabia’s Miahona Company signs a management, operations and maintenance contract with Saudi’s state-run water agency National Water Company. Signing the seven-year contract are representatives from the three companies and officials of National Water. The agreement covers the implementation of projects and the management of the water facilities and systems of the North West Cluster served by National Water.

Filinvest consortium bags 25-year Camp John Hay lease A CONSORTIUM led by the Filinvest Group won a 25-year lease contract with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and John Hay Management Corp. over a 5,700-square-meter property in Camp John Hay in Baguio City.

The consortium led by Filinvest Hospitality Corp. will build a hotel with over 200 rooms within the lease area.

The project will strengthen the group’s hospitality presence in Northern Luzon.

BCDA president and chief executive Vince Dizon, JHMC president and chief executive Allan Garcia and FHC senior vice president Francis Gotianun signed

the lease agreement on Tuesday.

The planned hotel will be the first dual brand property under the Grafik and Quest brands and will be managed

by Chroma Hospitality Inc. “We thank BCDA and JHMC for trusting Filinvest. Being the center of the Cordillera Region, Baguio City has always been one of the company’s top priorities. This unique opportunity will allow us to develop a full-service hotel in CJH, one of the most prime locations in Baguio. It offers the whole package— exclusivity, nature and panoramic views in the heart of Baguio,” Gotianun said.

“This year may be challenging, but we continue to look ahead and see a bright future. The hotel will be ready to welcome guests in three to four years in line with the full recovery of the tourism sector. As early as now, since the loosening of the lockdown and implementation of more efficient health and safety protocols, we are beginning to see signs of that recovery,” said Gotianun.

Gotianun said Baguio was expected to remain a top tourist and business destination because of its unique climate, culture, tourist attractions and accessibility. Jenniffer B. Austria

Consumer group asks Court of Appeals to stop power supply deal in Bantayan Island THE United Filipino Consumers and Commuters Inc. said Wednesday it asked the Court of Appeals to stop the implementation of a power supply contract in Bantayan Island, claiming that did not pass the government’s competitive selection process.

UFCC president Rodolfo Javellana Jr. said CSP as a form of public bidding

should have been observed in the purchase of electricity by distribution utilities to ensure a fair, reasonable and cost-effective generation charge for consumers.

Javellana said a 15-megawatt, 15-year power supply contract awarded by Bantayan Island Electric Cooperative Inc. to Isla Norte Energy Corp., along with ‘parent’ companies Vivant Integrated Diesel Corp.

and GigaWatt Power Inc., did not meet the two-bidder standard of CSP. Javellana said DOE Circular DC2018-020003 considers a bid failed when “competitive offers of prospective gencos [generation companies] failed to meet the requirements prescribed in the bid documents.”

He said this means that there should be more than one bidder for it to qualify as a CSP.

BANELCO called for the CSP bid in July 2019 to replace its power supply contract expiring in November 2021 and two bidders qualified—Bantayan Island Power Corp. and the Vivant-GigaWatt consortium. Conducted under a two-envelope format, the first envelope consisted of the technical proposal and the second, the financial or price offer.

PSE INDEX CLOSING

Wednesday, December 9, 2020 -101.01 PTS. 7,102.66

TOTAL VOLUME TOTAL TRADES TOTAL VALUE ADVANCES DECLINES UNCHANGED

99,199,457,894 184,331 9,881,468,933.05 132 117 27

F oreign e xchange r ate Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas • WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

48.0710

Japan

Yen

0.009602

0.4616

UK

Pound

1.335700

64.2084

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.129014

6.2018

Switzerland

Franc

1.124859

54.0731

Canada

Dollar

0.780396

37.5144

Singapore

Dollar

0.747664

35.9410

Australia

Dollar

0.741100

35.6254

Bahrain

Dinar

2.655196

127.6379

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266574

12.8145

Brunei

Dollar

0.744879

35.8071

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000071

0.0034

Thailand

Baht

0.033289

1.6002

UAE

Dirham

0.272272

13.0884

Euro

Euro

1.210500

58.1899

Korea

Won

0.000922

0.0443

China

Yuan

0.153088

7.3591

India

Rupee

0.013565

0.6521

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.245700

11.8110

New Zealand

Dollar

0.704000

33.8420

Taiwan

Dollar

0.035410

1.7022 Source: BSP

Small firms buck entry of foreign contractors

By Othel V. Campos THE micro, small and medium enterprises in the construction sector expressed concern over the possible unregulated entry of foreign contractors into the country.

Members of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines said it would be “untimely” to add more players to the local construction market amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as proposed by Senate Bill 1008 and its related bills that seek to lift restrictions on the entry of foreign players to the domestic construction industry.

“MSMEs comprising 97 percent of registered contractors who are reeling from the debilitating effects of the pandemic will further be subjected to foreign competitors whose wider supply chain networks and support from their respective governments will put them at a disadvantage,” CIAP said in a 13-page position paper presented during a recent Senate hearing.

The Society of Philippine Electrotechnical Constructors and Suppliers Inc., composed of licensed electrical construction companies, said “without the necessary safeguards and programs to develop and strengthen the local industry, it would have an adverse impact on our members, most of whom are MSMEs.” The Philippines has over 15,000 licensed contractors which provide around 4.2 million jobs, accounting for 10 percent of the total employment in the country and making it the biggest direct job contributor in the last 10 years.

“The entry of foreign contractors with their undue advantage will not only displace current professionals and workers in the industry, but will dampen employment opportunities for returning overseas Filipino workers,” CIAP said.

Concerned groups said the proposed legislation would increase the cost of constructing houses as 100 percent of foreign constructors would likely bring in high-salaried foreign engineers and managers.

The Philippine Constructors Association said in a position paper the proposed legislation “would critically impact local players— particularly the MSME sector, which make up some 97 percent of local contractors.”

Sports

Fil-Am Green likened to Kobe THE hard work put in by top National Basketball Association rookie prospect Jalen Green during practice has caught the attention of many observers.

Because of this, the 18-year-old Green is being likened to the late Kobe Bryant in terms of intensity, footwork, skills and basketball IQ. “This built me. Morning, noon and night. That’s why I developed my love for basketball,” said the Filipino-American on Zoom, referring to his workouts with his teammates and team Ignite in the NBA G-League.

Green, who has represented the United States in international meets and has also shown interest in playing for Gilas Pilipinas, is following the footsteps of Bryant.

But his coach Brian Shaw, who himself is one of the major influences in Bryant’s game when he was still alive and during his younger days, is telling and showing Green some moves that will help him to develop his own identity.

“I would never compare any player to Kobe. There’s only one Kobe and I want Jalen to be Jalen. I think the only comparison I will make with him to Kobe is that he wants to be great,” said Shaw on his observations with Green.

Green has been working so hard in practice, according to Shaw, that he had to tell the kid he needs to learn to rest and recover his energy.

Meanwhile, Shaw also recalled his days with Los Angeles as one of its assistant coaches as he personally looked into the game of Bryant, helping the 6’6” basketball superstar improve on his moves.

“I saw him over the years as he developed his discipline, like when you’re doing something as monotonous as stretching and icing every day. To warm down after you do a rigorous workout, those are hard to do. But Kobe had the discipline to do those things every single day,” said Shaw.

Bryant’s temper and attitude towards the officiating also changed through Shaw’s guidance.

Back in 2005, Shaw recalled that Bryant would get mad at the referee whenever he would do his plays, getting into trouble usually while driving for a basket.

Shaw then talked to Bryant about having an attitude of letting go. Peter Atencio

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

Bianca Pagdanganan and Yuka Saso

Saso, Pagdanganan test world’s th best in 75 US Open golf meet

By Peter Atencio

I

T WILL be a test of skills and talent for Philippine pride and Asian Games gold medalists Yuka Saso and Bianca Pagdanganan when they go up against the world’s best in the 75th US Open on Thursday (Friday in Manila) at the Champions Golf Club in Houston.

Saso made it to the tournament after being ranked as the 50th best player in the world.

On the other hand, Pagdanganan reached the main event of the 156-woman f ield by f inishing in the top 10 of the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship.

The tournament will see defending champion Jeongeun Lee seeking to keep her crown for another year.

Lee is on her maiden Ladies Professional Golf Association Tour after winning the title at the Countr y Club of Charleston last year as an amateur.

Action fires off the 10th tee of the Cypress Creek Course, and then it’s off for the first tee at the Jackrabbit Course the following day.

The 19-year-old Saso emerged as the money-leader in the recently concluded LPGA of Japan Tour.

Saso tees off at 2:32 a.m. (Manila time), while Pagdanganan begins her campaign at 2:10 a.m.

A top purse of $1 million is at stake for the winner.

Among the 24 amateurs in the field is Australian Gabriela Ruffels, a University of Southern California senior, who has competed in four LPGA Tour events this season.

Last week, Saso ended her first year in the Japanese LPGA by finishing second overall in points and with

the biggest money winnings.

Saso bucked the late surge of the Ricoh Cup winner Erika Hara to keep her second-place finish.

She emerged at the year-end Mercedes Rankings at 1,146.85 points with Hara tallying 1,049.32.

The Fil-Japanese Saso finished the Japan LPGA ranked at no. 223, with earnings totalling Y93,891,170 or P43,350,001.

On the other hand, Pagdanganan turned heads at the LPGA with her prodigious power since making her pro debut in July.

Pagdanganan finished tied ninth in her first major, the PGA Championship, and was then tied for third at the Drive On Championships behind winner Ally McDonald and world number five Danielle Kang to rocket to 43rd in the 2020 money list after playing only six events.

But it’s her length off the tee which has captivated the LPGA as she has been regularly blasting her driver past the 300-yard mark, a distance few women can match.

Haggerty seeks impressive ONE finish against Naito FORMER ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Jonathan “The General” Haggerty promises to show some new tricks when he returns to action at the previously recorded ONE: BIG BANG II. Haggerty takes on Taiki “Silent Sniper” Naito in the main event of the show, which airs this Friday, December 11, and he plans to leave an impression.

“I feel like I have to win this one, and not only do I have to win it, I have to win it convincingly and in spectacular style,” Haggerty told ONEFC.com.

“I’m going to be trying to pull some tricks out of the bag. Let’s get this World Title back.”

Haggerty has not competed since January, where he faced Rodtang “Iron Man” Jitmuangnon in a rematch for the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title. He lost via TKO by way of the threeknockdown rule.

He admits that he got carried away against the flashy Thai, but he promises to keep his emotions in check this time against the Japanese athlete.

“[I learned you need to] leave all emotions outside of the ring, listen to your cornermen, stick to a game plan, and don’t let Rodtang pull you into a fight — which I did,” Haggerty said.

“Naito’s main attributes are his counter-attacks.

He likes to make you overstretch, and once you do, that’s when he counters.”

This time he plans on staying focused and calculated as he targets a finish to remember for fans watching at home.

“I’d say [I will win by] round-two stoppage. A Jonathan Haggerty downward elbow – then maybe a new trick that I’ve developed in training, so get ready for it,” Haggerty said.

“One-hundred percent, I will be back at the top.”

Watch the previously recorded ONE: BIG BANG II on One Sports+ or the ONE Super App at 8:30 p.m. Philippine Standard Time (PHT).

Also, One Sports will cut into the broadcast at 9 p.m. PHT. Additionally, TV5 will air the event on a nextday delay at 11 p.m. PHT on Saturday, December 12.

Del Rosario, Superal seal shootout for LPGT crown

Jonathan Haggerty

Gialon storms ahead with fiery 65 Zanieboy Gialon hits an approach shot

C1

ZANIEBOY Gialon produced a pair of three-birdie binges on both nines to spike a stirring six-under 65 as he charged back from joint 18th and into the lead halfway through the ICTSI Riviera Championship at the Langer course in Silang, Cavite yesterday.

In a day of changing fortunes, Gialon put his act together and rattled off three birdies in row from No. 12 then after trading a birdie for bogey on Nos. 16 and 17 for the second straight day, the 31-yearold shotmaker strung up another threebirdie string from No. 4 to fashion out a 32-33 card in hot but windy conditions.

That more than made up for his fumbling opening 74 as he took control of the compact field in the P2.5 million event serving as the last of two bubble tournaments marking the Philippine Golf Tour restart. He pooled a three-under 139 in a

day when erstwhile leader Fidel Concepcion turned from awesome to awful with a seven-over 78.

“I played good and hit almost all fairways,” said Gialon, out to end a three-year spell after beating Jhonnel Ababa by six at ICTSI Calatagan Golf Challenge in 2017.

He also took notice of his big adjustment on the tough par-4 No. 13, which he double-bogeyed in the first round on a couple of wild shots but birdied from eight feet yesterday.

In contrast, Concepcion shot five birdies, one less than his lead-grabbing 66 marred by one bogey Tuesday, but he limped with four bogeys, two double bogeys on both par5s, and holed out with a quadruple bogey on the par-4 14th. He wound up with a 40-38 and tumbled from the top to joint ninth at 144 with Ababa, who rallied with a 68, and Justin Quiban, who faltered with a 74.

But a mix of seasoned campaigners and rising stars kept Gialon within sight, ready to pounce in today’s (Thursday) pivotal round, led by Angelo Que, who stayed a stroke off the pace despite a 73 for a 140 in a tie with Ira Alido.

The 19-year-old Alido, joint runner-up with Rupert Zaragosa in the ICTSI Riviera Invitational Challenge ruled by Tony Lascuña at the Couples three weeks ago, broke a par-game at the back with three birdies against two bogeys at the front for a second straight 70.

Jobim Carlos, the 2018 PGT Order of Merit winner whose game went on a downswing while battling a spate of injuries in 2019, likewise heralded his return to form, albeit late as he closed out with three straight birdies at the front for a 68.

He moved to joint fourth at 141 with Zaragosa, who carded a 70.

PAULINE del Rosario came out a bit better than Princess Superal in a wobbly frontside finish as she scrambled for a two-over 73 then watched her rival bogey the ninth to force a tie after 36 holes of the ICTSI Riviera Championship of the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour in Silang, Cavite yesterday.

Superal, who wrested a one-stroke lead over Del Rosario with a 69 in the first round Tuesday, held sway as she matched Del Rosario’s birdie on No. 10 and bogey on the 14th. But the ICTSI Riviera I nv it at io n a l Challenge runaway winner at Couples wavered with bogeys on Nos. 3, 6 and 9 for a 74, enabling Pauline del Rosario the 2017 LPGT Order of Merit winner, who bogeyed Nos. 1 and 8, to join her at 143.

That sealed an 18-hole shootout in the final round of the 54-hole championship today (Thursday) as the third ranked players – Chihiro Ikeda and Daniella Uy – lay six strokes behind at 149.

Although no lead is safe at the tricky Langer layout, the multi-titled Ikeda, who also carded a 74, and Uy would need to produce low rounds to spoil the Del Rosario-Superal duel.

Uy, who opened with a 74, actually pulled within Superal and Del Rosario with a frontside 34 but the former Junior World champion cracked when the going got tough at the back, bogeying five of the last eight and winding up with a 75.

Rookie Chanelle Avaricio and Gretchen Villacencio assembled identical 152s after a 77 and 78, respectively, while Abby Arevalo, who placed second to Superal at the Couples, failed to rebound from an opening 77 with a 78 for a 155.

Cyna Rodriguez, a former three-time OOM winner and LPGA Tour campaigner, also skied to an 80 for a 156 while Marvi Monsalve also shot an 80 for a 157.

C2

Sports

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

Young PH coach wins at Sport Global Awards

Ronaldo scores twice as Juve rips Messi’s troubled Barca BARCELONA—Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice from the penalty spot to win his battle with rival Lionel Messi and guide Juventus to a 3-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday, earning the Italians top spot in Champions League Group G. The former Real Madrid striker and his Argentina counterpart traded Ballon d’Or wins for a decade between 2008-2017 and were figureheads for the duelling Spanish giants, but there was only one winner at the Camp Nou as they met for the first time since Ronaldo’s departure for Juve in 2018.

Andrea Pirlo’s Juventus lost 2-0 at home against Barcelona in October without Ronaldo, sidelined with COVID-19, but were greatly improved and earned the first Champions League away win against Barcelona since Bayern Munich triumphed in 2013.

Both sides, tied on 15 points, were assured of qualification before kick-off, but Juve’s three-goal victory handed them a superior head-to-head record.

“When you have this desire to sacrifice yourself and an infallible sniper, like Ronaldo, you are sure you can win these matches,” Bonucci told Sky Sport Italia.

“As we showed in the derby (win over Torino), if we play with this desire, we bring home the results we want. The next step is to do this in all our games.”

Ronald Koeman, reeling from Barcelona’s 2-1 defeat by promoted minnows Cadiz on Saturday in La Liga, reacted by making four changes but the hosts started badly.

It only took 13 minutes for Ronaldo to break the deadlock, slotting home from the penalty spot after the referee deemed Ronald Araujo’s challenge on him a foul.

Juventus did not relent and their pressure led to a second goal, US midfielder Weston McKennie volleying home Juan Cuadrado’s sweetly clipped cross in the 20th minute.

The Catalans and their captain Messi finally woke from their slumber, as the attacker had one effort blocked by Matthijs de Ligt and another saved by veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, while Pjanic lashed over the bar.

POC INDUCTION. President Rodrigo Duterte administers the oath of office of the newly elected officers of the Philippine Olympic Committee on Tuesday at the Malacanang Palace. The officials are president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, first vice president Al Panlilio, board members Dave Carter and Dr. Raul Canlas, auditor Chito Loyzaga and immediate past president Ricky Vargas.

Harden joins Rockets after 3 training camp no-shows

W

ASHINGTON—Three-time reigning NBA scoring champion James Harden reported to the Houston Rockets training camp Tuesday with coach Stephen Silas confident he can build a successful relationship with the superstar guard.

Harden, the 2018 NBA Most Valuable Player, has been unhappy at being the centerpiece in the Rockets’ rebuild and is faced with a new coach, general manager and nine recent arrivals, including John Wall arriving from Washington in a deal for 2017 NBA MVP Russell Westbrook.

Harden had reportedly been linked to wanting a deal to the Brooklyn Nets to join Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but the Rockets wanted so much in return for the NBA’s top scorer that no club was likely to make such an offer.

That had left Harden unhappy and he was absent for the first three days of Rockets’ workouts before he was tested for Covid-19 as part of the NBA’s safety protocol Wednesday.

Harden could practice with the Rockets ahead of their pre-season opener on Friday at Chicago.

“That’s pretty much all I know,” Silas said. “Him getting tested in Houston is good for everybody.”

James Harden

The Rockets began workouts on Sunday and Silas said on Monday there was no timetable for disgruntled Harden to arrive, calling his absence a “setback”, but Silas was hopeful of building a relationship, saying he had

not spoken with Harden to give him some “space.”

“Trust is built day to day and once the relationship begins, we’ll begin that process of trust,” Silas said.

“Obviously, there wasn’t a great start to it, but that’s the NBA. The NBA is not going to be roses every day.”

Silas was named coach of the Rockets six weeks ago as part of major changes in the organization.

The team has a new general manager in Rafael Stone, who replaced Daryl Morey, the new Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations, and has nine new faces from last season.

Harden’s arrival came as ESPN reported he has made it known he would welcome a trade to Philadelphia, which boasts Cameroon big man Joel Embiid and Australian guard Ben Simmons as well as Morey.

Silas said Harden should be able to quickly absorb what the Rockets have done over the first three days of practice.

“Elite players have a way of learning fast, fitting in and making everyone better,” Silas said. “There will be some sort of learning curve.”

MARIAN ‘Yman’ Crisley, from the Philippines, has been announced as one of five winners of the Courageous Use Of Sport Award at the 2020 Beyond Sport Global Awards for her work with FundLife International.

The 18-year-old Yman has been recognized not only her own personal development despite facing adversity, but also for her efforts in educating young women in the Philippines about their rights, through football.

The award is given to individuals who have shown dedication and courage in using sport to improve their communities, standing up against injustice and discrimination, often at great personal risk.

Now in its 12th year, the 2020 Beyond Sport Global Awards will celebrate, support, raise awareness and provide funding for ways sport is being used to help make the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a reality.

FundLife International was born out of a natural disaster. Over the course of nine days in 2013, Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) devastated Southeast Asia and particularly the Philippines. It was one of the most powerful tropical cyclones ever recorded and many of the 16 million affected were left with nothing.

Those who would ultimately go on to form the organization took notice of the social interventions made in response to alleviate the resulting trauma, a number of which consisted of play-based sessions and sport tournaments in partnership with local clubs and communities. FundLife saw the potential to use sport holistically to support vulnerable children, recognizing that it all began with play.

Yman experienced personal tragedy as a result of the Typhoon in 2013, being separated from her parents, but joined FundLife when she was 14 and since fell in love with football.

She first discovered her love for football after watching the FundLife coaches in action, seeing them not only coaching players but also teaching them life skills that will stay with the young people for the rest of their lives. Being part of FundLife enabled Yman to have the opportunity to grow as an individual, gaining more confidence in herself.

FundLife also gave Yman, at the age of 16, the opportunity to travel to Russia in order to take part in a training workshop hosted by FIFA. At the age of 17, Yman became an assistant coach and then eventually went on to become a fully-fledged FundLife coach.

UNTV champion DENR donates prize to Environmental Heroes Foundation

By Butch Gunio PILAR, Bataan—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is donating its purse as champion of the UNTV Cup to its chosen charitable institution, the Environmental Heroes Foundation Inc. Secretary Roy Cimatu led the awarding of trophy and cash prize to the UNTV Cup Season 8 Champion DENR Warriors in a simple ceremony held recently.

The UNTV Cup is a men’s charity basketball league. For Season 8, 12 basketball teams represented by government agencies and guested by celebrities and ex-pro and amateur players competed in the league.

Bataan’s Penro Raul Mamac, a player of DENR Warriors, said the cash prize will go to the players and their chosen beneficiary. He said

THE BOTTOM LINE LITO CINCO I AM SURE some readers would say that my picking of Barangay Ginebra to emerge winner in its ongoing best-of-seven showdown against TNT Tropang Giga is playing it safe for me.

After all, even as I am penning this piece, the Gin Kings have made it 3-1 after four games. And by the time you are reading this, I will not be surprised at all that Ginebra may have already wrapped up the series in Game 5, Wednesday night.

But then, it is a fact for me that even prior to the start of the PBA bubble tournament, I already picked Ginebra

the trophy and prize came from UNTV. “We thank the full support of the DENR top management Sec. Cimatu, Usec. Ernesto “Jun” Adobo, Usec. Benny Antiporda, Asec. Mark Fragada, Asec Joan “JL” Lag, and our regional directors,” he said.

Mamac said the DENR secretary also gave plaques of appreciation to players of the Warriors in the recent ceremony.

Government health protocols were strictly observed during the awarding ceremony.

Mamac said all players of DENR Warriors were employees of their agency from Region 3, Region 11 (Davao), and Central Office. He also said team coach was Usec. Adobo and assistant playing coach was DENR Director Norlito Eneran.

The DENR Warriors beat previous champion AFP Cavaliers for this season’s championship trophy.

DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu (center) hands over the cash prize to Bataan Penro Raul Mamac of the DENR Warriors, champion of the UNTV Basketball Cup Season 8. With them is DENR Asec.

Mark Fragada.

Butch Gunio

Second round of gin for me as one of the top picks, together with San Miguel Beer (I bombed out on that). In the semifinals against Meralco, again, I picked Ginebra to advance to the finals, and I knew whoever they meet for the crown, I still would pick Tim Cone’s squad.

And if ever TNT comes up with a shocking win in Game 5, Ginebra will still end up finishing the series as champion.

So why am I so sure that crowd favorite Ginebra, playing without a crowd this time, will win the Philippine Cup? This is the strongest and most balanced squad I have seen in recent years, loaded in all positions, supported by the fact that different players are playing the hero’s role.

Japeth Aguilar us playing at his best; LA Tenorio is providing solid

leadership, leading his team to victory in Game 4; Stanley Pringle is pretty consistent with his offense; and Scottie Thomson is playing all around with spunk. There’s also the supporting cast of Joe Devance, Aljon Mariano, Jared Dillinger, Arvin Tolentino, shooter Jeff Chan and big man Prince Caperal.

Then, a head coach like Tim. Give him these kinds of talent and he will end up winning a lot more games than he would lose.

What is surprising are the close games that TNT is giving Ginebra practically every night, except that blowout win in Game 3. Surprising, because the Tropang Giga are missing two key players as the series progressed.

Ray Parks, a big factor in the

semis, saw action only in Game 1, before suffering a calf injury that forced him to sit out the next three games. He is a very doubtful starter for Game 5.

Then, you have veteran point guard Jayson Castro, who is bothered no end by a bone spurs problem and was not playing at 100 %. He is also a question mark for Game 5.

Even if the trio of RR Pogoy, Troy del Rosario and Poi Erram, and throw in Simon Enciso, all level up, it will not be enough to beat the loaded line up of Ginebra.

It is all but a matter of time when Ginebra crowns itself as champion.

What I would like to look forward to, will be the 2021 basketball season, not just in the PBA, but also the UAAP, which might end up playing

only the men’s and women’s basketball, though I cannot believe the league, if given the go signal can afford not to include women’s volleyball in its schedule.

The PBA is already wheeling and dealing, with lots of major trades seemingly under negotiation, if not done deals.

I just hope that the league, now that it has reached near parity for more teams, except for a few, will not allow the strong teams to get even stronger with lopsided trades.

This Sunday, THE SWAB will be featuring Part 1 of our episode on Joshua and Jerome Nelmuda, our blind paratriathletes. Please watch and be inspired with what these born-blind athletes will share. I host this vlog with my nephew Vivid Jay Gueco.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

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The most beautiful gift you can give your family according to Heart

Artist and screen star Heart Evangelista hopes to inspire Filipinos to work hard for their dream home.

W

YUGEL LOSORATA

HEN Reuben Laurente returned to Manila early this year, little did he know it would be a long timeout for his career as cruise entertainer.

After he got off the Westerdam of Holland America ship, the WHO, not the band, declared something called pandemic.

Fortunately, an old flame came to save the day. The situation ironically gave him a golden opportunity to re-tap his painting talent that practically took a backseat because of his musical endeavors. He’s on to his 11th obra since deciding that painting would help him release anxiety caused by the community quarantine and deal with paying the bills and bringing food on the table.

“Looking at the bright side of things, it turned out to be an unprecedented opportunity where I could go back to painting while creating music as well,” said the former singer for premier vocal group The CompanY. Asia’s Timeless Diva Dulce bought a painting he created dubbed Mga Dalaga sa Balkonahe. She had it serve as backdrop while being interviewed for a cultural online show.

A graduate of Bachelor of Interior Design at the University of the Philippines, Reuben started drawing at age five and owed his skill to his father Dominador who then worked as a graphic artist for the evangelical Philippine Crusades. Years later he joined an exhibit at Art Space in Glorietta 4.

His work graced the coffee table books Philippine Visual Arts 2000 and Folk Influence on Modern Art in 2002.

His style can be seen as a reflection of his care for human depth and glowing color combinations. Three of his nieces, Bethany, Bethel, and Beulah, served as muses for his fresh creations Singkil Princess, Dalagang Magbubukid, and Tausug Girl.

Years ago, while suffering from laryngitis, Reuben crafted 13 art pieces focused on Filipino culture. You bet those 13 gave him more than enough luck to get back his bearing.

Juggling music and art at a time many

SCREEN star Heart Evangelista inks a multiyear deal as the new brand ambassador for RLC Residences, a real estate property brand under Robinsons Land Corporation.

“We are raising the game in the property market with the upcoming launch of our new brand, RLC Residences and Heart is the perfect representation of how we are elevating every aspect of our product and service standards,” said Architect Henry L. Yap, business unit general manager of RLC Residences.

“Launching a new brand into the market (during this time) is no easy feat, but we knew that tapping into Heart’s credibility, intelligence, beauty, and standards of quality, is the best way to move forward in communicating the exciting product features and services that goes into every RLC Residences development,” Yap shares further.

For Heart, the partnership is something very close to her passions.

“This is something I am really excited about. For those who know me, I have always loved the concept of beautifying spaces and nooks at home. With RLC Residences, I hope to bring that to life,” Heart shares.

But more than the concept of designing spaces, Heart hopes to inspire people to work hard for their dream home, as she believes that, “our country (and the world) has been through a lot this year, and home has a renewed meaning. It has become a symbol of strength and our safe haven. I hope that I can convince people that investing in a home such as RLC Residences is the most beautiful gift they can give to their families if not for themselves.”

As RLC Residences’ brand ambassadress, Heart will appear in an ad campaign slated for release early next year. This campaign will showcase RLC Residences’ innovative product offerings in the residential property scene. Part of the

Portrait of a singer as a painter MILESTO NE

Singer-painter Reuben Laurente came out with a new, full-length album, 'Milestone,' and re-ignited his passion for painting amidst the pandemic.

artists find themselves idle and not knowing what to do next, Reuben noted in his usual positive tone, “Sa pandemyang ito di tayo pinabayaan ng Panginoon.

We’ll just keep on creating and give God the glory from the gifts He has blessed us with.”

Last Nov. 30, Reuben’s sixth solo album and his first full-length digital release “Milestone” came out. The video of his laudable a capella rendition of “Someone To Watch Over Me” premiered on social media platforms, too. The album was produced by GRMilestone Records

Music Production headed by Arnold Santiago. It features R&B Queen Jaya in a song called “Us Together” and which insiders described as a “glorious musical celebration” that touched on various genres. It inserted a Christmas song called “Pasko Na.” “It’s a testament of God’s faithfulness that I was able to record at an unusual, unexpected and unpredictable time,” he added.

Reuben wishes that his works be exhibited and curated by galleries in Manila and abroad. Expect the genie in a bottle to grant it.

Coleen, Roxanne headline ‘Sabado Bago Live’ SABADO Bago Live, which features a diverse range of topics as hosted by Boy Abunda with special guest co-host Coleen Garcia, is the latest addition to the exciting roster of shows streaming on The Puregold Channel.

From the newest highlights in brand marketing and newsworthy personalities to the latest celebrity updates and hottest online trends, netizens can look forward to a weekly source of refreshing information and entertainment on each episode.

Sabado Bago Live is conceptualized as a means to provide quality, top-notch entertainment to millions of Filipino families staying at home because of the pandemic.

This weekly talk show is designed specifically for the viewing pleasure of Puregold’s loyal online supporters that is currently close to an accumulated 3 million followers across such platforms as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

“I am very grateful for the wonderful and positive response on our pilot episode,” says Puregold President Vincent Co. “We are really working hard to provide every Filipino family unique and engaging content that hopefully they will enjoy. This is a dream project and after many months of meetings

and preparations, it’s finally streaming.

Some of the show’s highly-anticipated segments are “T.O.P Trending Online Posts,” which gives a rundown of trending social media buzz and entertainment news of the week; “The Full Blast,” which showcases normal folk who went viral on the web; and “Launch Pad,” a segment that focuses on Puregold’s brand partners as they introduce first-in-market products and campaigns as well as a special segment where Boy Abunda sits down with top celebrities in an exclusive, in-depth conversation with his signature rapid fire questions.

“I have a very special relationship with Puregold. They are family to me and I feel that I am home,” says the King of Talk.

“This is the very first time that I will be doing something like this in this format, streaming on a social media platform. I don’t know how the show will turn out and that excites me very, very much.”

For this week’s episode streaming on Saturday (Dec. 12) at 4:00 p.m., Sabado Bago Live will feature Teresita Balilo – a Hemodialysis patient who is a fan of the different shows on Puregold Channel on “The Full Blast;” Nutri Asia Costumer and Business Development Head Janmar

Roque on “Launchpad;” and Roxanne Guinoo and Lara Quigaman on “Celebrity Exclusive;” and Jobert Sucaldito as he culminates the show with the juiciest celebrity blind items.

For updates on Sabado Bago Live and all the other fantastic content of The Puregold Channel, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and subscribe to Puregold Channel on YouTube.

Puregold President Vincent Co

From left: Gigi Santiago (Senior AVP for Alternative Productions, GMA Network), Heart Evangelista, Frederick Go (President and CEO, Robinsons Land Corporation), and Arch.

Henry Yap (SVP and Business Unit General Manager, RLC Residences)

partnership also includes Heart engaging that will convey the brand’s new identity with designers and collaborating with a at the same time showcasing her talent number of influencers in unique activities and stand-out personality.

GMA Regional TV is still the Filipinos’ regional channel of choice as it was recognized as this year’s Best Regional TV Network.

GMA Network wins at 2020 Platinum Stallion National Media Awards THE country’s leading network continues to win the hearts of the Trinity University of Asia community as several Kapuso programs and personalities were recognized at the 2020 Platinum Stallion National Media Awards held virtually on Nov. 28.

GMA Regional TV is still the Filipinos’ regional channel of choice as it was recognized as this year’s “Best Regional TV Network.” This is the fourth year in a row that GMA RTV won the said award.

Its local newscasts GMA RTV Balitang Amianan (North Central Luzon), GMA RTV Balitang Bisdak (Central and Eastern Visayas), GMA RTV One Western Visayas (Western Visayas), and GMA RTV One Mindanao (North, Central, and Southern Mindanao), as well as its national newscast GMA Regional TV Weekend News have been bringing local news and information that matter to Filipino viewers nationwide.

This year, GMA RTV also launched its regional morning shows Mornings with GMA Regional TV in North Central Luzon; GMA Regional TV Live! in Central and Eastern Visayas; GMA Regional TV Early Edition in Western Visayas; and At Home with GMA Regional TV in North, Central, and Southern Mindanao.

Meanwhile, broadcast journalist Jessica Soho was awarded as the “Female News Personality of the Year” for GMA News TV’s flagship newscast State of the Nation with Jessica Soho.

The continuing efforts of GMA News and Public Affairs on the COVID-19 outbreak also did not go unnoticed as the team was given the award for “Best COVID-19 News Coverage.” Through GMA News and Public Affairs’ various programs, campaigns, and initiatives on

air and online, the Kapuso Network has been keeping the public updated about the latest news and other relevant information on the pandemic.

One of its documentaries, The Atom Araullo Special’s “Nang Tumigil Ang Mundo,” won the “Best Documentary on COVID-19.” The compelling documentary narrated the ongoing battle of the Philippines against COVID-19, with vignettes on how the pandemic has altered the lives not only of Filipinos but also of the rest of the world.

GMA Network’s flagship newscast 24 Oras, on the other hand, was once again named as “Best News Program.”

The country’s longest-running morning TV show Unang Hirit took home the “Best Morning Show” award.

Earning the nod as “Best Public Service Program for Television” is the well-loved public service program Wish Ko Lang!.

Hosted by Vicky Morales, Wish Ko Lang! made a comeback this year with the aim of bringing hope and inspiration to Filipinos during these trying times.

Capping off the list of Kapuso winners is longest-running noontime show Eat Bulaga that was recognized as this year’s “Best Noontime Show.”

The “2020 Platinum Stallion National Media Awards” is organized by the Media and Communication Department of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education of Trinity University of Asia. It recognizes the efforts of various individuals and groups that provide education to the public through media and the allied arts. The awardees were chosen by the entire Trinitian community including its students, alumni, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders.

ABS-CBN’S ‘Ikaw Ang Liwanag At Ligaya’ hits millions of views ABS-CBN’s 2020 Christmas ID “Ikaw Ang Liwanag at Ligaya” recorded 2.5 million views on Facebook and 1.3 million views on YouTube for a total of 3.8 million views less than 24 hours after it was launched on Tuesday (Dec. 1).

With its touching stories, positive message, and powerful imagery, “Ikaw Ang Liwanag At Ligaya” emerged immediately as a trending topic on Twitter after its launch, and also became the top trending video on YouTube in the Philippines. It was made special with the presence of Kapamilya stars with ABSCBN’s chairman Mark Lopez, president and CEO Carlo Katigbak, and COO of broadcast Cory Vidanes.

As of Dec. 9, the ABS-CBN Christmas ID already has more than 5 million views on YouTube and 4 million views on Facebook. Its lyric video released last Nov. 27, meanwhile, already has 7.7 million views on YouTube and 12 million views on Facebook.

The ABS-CBN Christmas ID 2020 was created by the ABS-CBN Creative Communication Management Division headed by Robert Labayen, Johnny De Los Santos, and ABS-CBN COO of broadcast Cory Vidanes. The lyrics of “Ikaw Ang Liwanag at Ligaya” theme was written

by Robert Labayen and Love Rose De Leon

with music by Thyro Alfaro, and featured the voices of 20 Kapamilya artists.

It was a collective effort by Kapamilya stars, ABS-CBN News and TeleRadyo anchors and reporters, and regional MOR DJs in gratitude to the selfless generosity and love of Filipinos, who continue to be with us as we find new ways of serving the people and sharing light and joy to the nation.

“Ikaw ang Liwanag and Ligaya” also celebrates the unwavering public service of the ABS-CBN Foundation with Ernie Lopez and Berta Lopez-Feliciano, and the Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. led by Rina Lopez Bautista.

ABS-CBN’s station ID carries the message that God is the source of light and love in dark times.

Life

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

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HOUSEHOLD

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020

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OCAL finds, artisanal products, imported goods, and a few surprises here and there all in one place make bazaar shopping an experience quite unique that malls nationwide mount them especially during the holiday season.

Here are some fairs and bazaars currently ongoing and are soon to open to the public:

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte (center) checks out products with DTI Trade Promotions Group Undersecretary Abdulgani Macatoman and Gloria’s Delicacies owner Gloria Garcia Pantaleon.

Bagsakan Fair

Fairview Terraces, Quezon City The initiative, born out of the desire to help farmers reach their customers easily, Bagsakan Special Project, comes to Quezon City in a bigger format, featuring over 30 local MSMEs sprawled across 6,500-square meter of space.

Bagsakan Fair, made possible by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) in coordination with DTI Regional and Provincial offices, brings the best products from local farmers, fruit growers, and social cooperatives who were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other natural calamities. The event aims to showcase world-class products and help farmers

and small entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

To ensure safety among shoppers at Fairview Terraces, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who graced the launch on Dec. 1, said, “The Bagsakan Fair is being generously hosted in 6,500 square meters of retail space so we can minimize crowds and follow the public health standards as we celebrate the holiday spirit.”

The fair opens with 32 local brands (seven from Bataan, one from Bulacan, one from Laguna, six from Quezon, and 17 from NCR), and will eventually increase in number within the allotted retail space—on the second and third floors of the mall—from December to February 2021.

Banana chips and other goodies for sale

SHOPPING

Hunting for unique gifts?

Check out holiday bazaars at malls Curious Creatives

Lower ground, Main Wing, Edsa Shangri-La, Mandaluyong

Chain bags from Vesti

Filipino Fashion Fair Glorietta, Makati

A diverse lineup of fashion and home pieces by local designers and artisan labels will be mounted during this holiday trunk show on Dec. 17-20.

According to its organizers, Philippine Fashion Coalition and Ayala Malls, the fashion fair is a national special project campaign to aid and promote Filipino creativity and craftsmanship.

“We are showcasing quality craftsmanship among many Filipino designers, whom we celebrate and are very proud of,” enthuses Ayala Malls president Jennylle Tupaz.

Participating designers include Vittorio Barba, Noel Crisostomo, Rhett Eala, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Randy Ortiz, Carissa Cruz-Evangelista, Gina Nebrida-Ty, Jor El Espina, Dexter Alazas, Jun Escario, Philip Rodriguez, Tatah Costales, Aztec Barba, Benjie Panizales, Emi Englis, Dodjie Batu, Windel Mira, Egay Ayag, Edgar Buyan, Gil Macaibay III, Benjie Manuel, Juniel Doring, Melvin Lachica, Arnold Neri, Mavy de Leon, Ruvil Neri, Ann Semblante, Joshua Guibone, Mark Yaranon, and Alma Mae Roa. After its four-day run in the Makati mall, the fashion fair will be heading to Market! Market! on Jan. 7-10, Ayala Center Cebu on Jan. 14-17, Manila Bay on Jan. 14-17, Centrio on Jan. 14-17, Abreeza on Jan. 28-31, and UP Town Center on Jan. 28-31.

Handbags and clutches from Aranaz

Quirky items by local artists are for sale at this fair opening on Dec. 10 until Dec. 16.

“The holiday fairs and bazaars have been a long-time tradition at Shangri-La Plaza, and knowing how many of our mall guests look forward to these has really inspired us to put together something they would truly enjoy,” says Joy Polloso, executive vice president at Shang Properties, Inc. Polloso assures guests, “The mall is prepared to receive shoppers safely and offer them all these great local finds.”

Quirky home items

Plant Place by Shang Level 1, Main Wing, Edsa Shangri-La, Mandaluyong

Got a “plantito” or “halamom” on your list? Score premium local and imported plants, as well as plant care essentials at this bazaar, featuring HOME

by Ralph and Co., open until Dec. 31.

Shoppers who purchase at least P1,000 worth of plants at the pop-up store will get freebies.

In addition to this plant pop-up, Shangri-La will also host Deck the Halls a Christmas bazaar at the Grand Atrium on Dec. 16-22, Flavors of Christmas bazaar at the Food Forum on Dec. 17-23, and Paskong Pinoy bazaar on the lower ground of Main Wing on Dec. 24-30.

Chef, working mom-approved e-payment solution FOR busy moms and professionals juggling multiple to-dos on the daily, mundane chores like paying bills or transferring money are something best done quickly.

Thank goodness for digital payment solutions, simple tasks such as those are accomplished without too much fuss as a few taps on the screen.

Working mom and president of social enterprise Rags2Riches, Reese Fernandez-Ruiz embraces products and services that let her “do my thing” while they efficiently work in the background, such as the new ING Pay, ING Philippines’ new Chef Sau Del Rosario payment account.

A bank account, approved and transfer cash via PESONet or Insupervised by the Bangko Sentral staPay, deposit a check directly to ng Pilipinas, ING Pay lets custom- their account via the mobile app, ers make everyday payments and or transfer funds from ING Save to transactions digitally anywhere ING Pay for free. they may be.

“The launch of ING Pay further Anyone can open an ING Pay, demonstrates our commitment to even those with no ING Save ac- empower customers as they look count. Just simply download the for a safer and more efficient way ING mobile app through the iOS to make payments and transactions App Store or Google Play Store, in the midst of the pandemic,” said and select “Open an ING Pay Ac- ING Philippines country manager count.” However, opening an ING Hans Sicat.

Save account is also recommended Customers can pay to more than to “take advantage of its features, 70 pre-enrolled billers and mersuch as high interest rates.” chants (including major utilities, “With ING, I can do my thing be- credit cards, insurance, and telecause the important tools that I need communication companies), transto run and sustain my enterprise are fer money to other third-party bank on my phone,” said Fernandez- accounts, and use their virtual Visa Ruiz. debit card via the mobile app. A The social entrepreneur added physical debit card will be available that it has made her life easier as soon. a mother and entrepreneur while “We offer every ING Pay cusworking from home. tomer a free virtual debit card where “I can simply open my ING app, the details are only accessible via InstaPay Transfer payments to our the ING mobile app, so they do not suppliers and artisans, with an ad- have to worry about card details falljustable daily transfer limit,” shared ing into the wrong hands. ING Pay Fernandez-Ruiz. customers can also freeze or unCelebrity chef Sau Del Rosario freeze their card in one tap via the likewise takes advantage of digital ING mobile app when they need to solutions to pursue his passions. secure it,” said head of retail Mo“Being able to pay my bills via hamed Keraine. the ING app means I can spend In celebration of the holiday more time in cooking for our mod- season and its product launch, cusern heroes, serving the Filipinos, tomers using either ING virtual or and taking care of my business,” physical debit card for their pursaid Chef Sau. chases get 5 percent cashback until To fund the account, users can Dec. 31.

Premium local and imported plants and plant care essentials for sale.

DOMESTIC LIVING

Smart TV with a ‘K-gift’ KOREAN drama fans looking for an upgrade on their viewing experience can check out Samsung’s latest partnership with Viu. Every purchase of select Samsung Smart TV until Dec. 31 comes with a free one-year premium subscription to Viu—letting fans bask in the glory of their beloved oppa and unni’s seemingly poreless skin in high definition, clear picture quality, and full and solid sound quality.

Every purchase of Samsung Smart TV until Dec. 31 comes with a one-year premium subscription to Viu.

Reese Fernandez-Ruiz